Pittwater Online News

Roads To Pittwater: The Mona Vale Road

In the Mona Vale Road East Upgrade latest Pictorial update (July 2023) it becomes apparent that the slated completion time of late 2023 is likely to be achieved, and with requests to rerun this 2018 history insight from near the opening announcements of this upgrade, the time is now right to do so for those who want to dive in again and those who missed it the first time around.

In April 1788 Australia's first Governor, Captain Arthur Phillip, led a reconnaissance party from Manly Cove upstream through the Stoney Creek (St Ives) area, seeking fertile land for growing crops. On this journey, he noted the tall trees which were to provide timber for the growing colony. 

Mona Vale Road runs along a ridge dividing the watershed on the south east via the Pymble Valley to Middle Harbour and north to Cowan Creek towards Broken Bay, and towards the Lane Cove River catchment. It is most likely to have been formed in the path of an Aboriginal route, and is one of the first roads defined as a route to Pitt Water. 

This rough bush track was successively known as Pennant Hills Road, Lane Cove Road, Gordon Road, as in 'the road to', and is now called the Pacific Highway. At what we now call Gordon and St. Ives, the Stoney Creek road commenced and ran from Gordon to meet up with this track. The major transport route in the area was a dirt track known as Stoney Creek Road (now Mona Vale Road), originally constructed by Daniel Mathew to take timber from his saw mill to Sydney.  Access was also in the opposite direction along Pittwater Road to Pittwater. The name 'Mona Vale Road' now applies to them both. Originally the stretch from the Lane Cove Road (Pacific Highway) to Telegraph Road in St Ives was called 'Stoney Creek Road' and from Telegraph Road(at St. Ives) northwards it was called 'Pittwater Road'.

The Lane Cove Road (now Pacific Highway) was formed closely following the original bullock tracks of these early timber-getters. At the other end, the Mona Vale/Rocklily end, the road was called the 'Lane Cove road' - simply because it was the 'road to Lane Cove' - and later on 'The Gordon Road' under the same premise. 

It is also important  to remember that what we now call Mona Vale had a few names in the past - one being Turrimetta and Taramatta. The area was also known to be called 'Rocklily' or Rock Lily - some residents had 'Rock Lily' as the birth place on their birth certificates, even into 1910's.

The route wound over Sugarloaf and then down Tumbledown Dick Hill to Foley's Hill, named for Daniel Foley, the unfortunate gentleman who settled 'Mona Vale Farm' and was murdered on his way home. Visit - The Murder of David Foley by Shelagh Champion OAM 

F.109 Mona Vale road to Broken Bay from Volume 1: Sketches of N. S. [New South] Wales, 1857-1888 / by H. Grant Lloyd, Image No.: a5894117h, courtesy Dixson Library, State Library of New South Wales. NB: This aspect looks as though the walkers are heading to Mona Vale from Newport, also there is no St John's on what we now call Mona Vale headland - that chapel opened in 1871.

One of the first landholders in the St Ives/Gordon/Pymble end was Daniel Dering Mathew, who arrived in the colony in 1812. In 1819 he returned to England to purchase mechanical saw-milling machinery. A timber-getter, merchant, architect and magistrate, in 1819 he acquired a 400 acre grant he named the 'Clanville Estate' at what is present day Roseville. Here he felled timber and farmed.  The name of the estate remains as that of one of the best known streets in Roseville.  His grant covered the area from the present highway east to Archbold Road, and from Boundary Street north to Tryon Road.  Around 1830, Mathew sold this grant to Richard Archbold. 

In 1822 Mr. Mathew petitioned for another grant on which to erect a newly arrived 'sawing machine' and in 1823 he was granted 800 uncleared acres which he named 'Rosedale', which was sited at present day St Ives and stretched into what is now Pymble Golf Course - East Pymble.  In 1824 he established a saw mill on the corner of Cowan Road and Stoney Creek Road referred to as the 'Cowan sawmill'. This grant was formalised in 1831. [2.]

Mona Vale Road then marks Matthew’s access road to his early mechanised sawmill on Cowan Rd, St Ives. Telegraph Road marks the main timber getting route through Pymble and Matthews grants towards Stoney Creek Road (Mona Vale Rd). In 1831 Mathews disputed Surveyor Mitchell’s northern boundary of his Cowan mill site (correctly) but which was already granted to John Ayers. 

1838 eventual gazettal of disputed ‘Rosedale’ grant 800 acres to DD Mathew (perhaps including the 400 of the former Clanville) extending from Lane Cove Rd (Pacific Hwy) to Killeaton St., St Ives, and includes Mona Vale Rd. To north the 1871 parish map names John Ayres as owner of 320 acres.

(FROM A CORRESPONDENT.)

I was much gratified on my visit last week to the Cowan Saw-mills. I think it one of the completest pieces of machinery produced by animal power that ever I saw. Tho proprietor took every pains in pointing out the different powers of his machinery ; this machine cuts 450 feet of flooring boards every hour, or 300 feet of battens. The teeth of the saw passes through the space of 8200 feet a minute, being at the rate of 96 miles in the hour. The fly-wheel of this machine travels at the rate of 7000 feet per minute. I wish the proprietor every success in his highly valuable undertaking.

ILLAWARRA. (1831, July 14). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2201520

AUSTRALIAN MACHINERY.—The proprietor of the Cowan Saw-mill, the first that has been erected in New South Wales, has now brought his machinery to such perfection that he can cut 450 feet superficial of flooring boards, or 600 feet of battens in one hour; the teeth of the saws pass through the space of 8200 feet per minute, being at the rate of 96 miles in the hour, a speed produced by animal power never known before. The fly wheel of this machine travels at the rate of 7000 feet per minute. Domestic Intelligence. (1831, July 18). The Sydney Herald (NSW : 1831 - 1842), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12843288

GORDON. 1. Daniel Dering Mathew, 800. Eight hundred Acres; bounded on the West by part of the East boundary of Pymble's Farm, bearing South 114 chains to the Parramatta-road; on the South by that road to the Western corner of B. Clayton's Farm, and by the North-west  boundary of that farm, bearing East thirty degrees North 28 chains; on the East by a line bearing North 135 chains; and on the North by a line bearing West 61 chains to the Eastern boundary of Pymble's Farm. Quit-rent, £6 13s. 4d. sterling, commencing 1st January, 1839. Classified Advertising (1831, October 1). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2202859

The corner of Pittwater Road (now Mona Vale Road) and Cowan Road, St. Ives, circa 1900 to 1909. Courtesy Ku-Ring-Gai Historical Society.

'THE CHURCH WITH CHIMNEYS.'

This old building (which stood at the corner St. Ives-road and Cowan-road), after serving various purposes was used for divine worship, until recently demolished. It stood near the site of the present Pymble Golf Links. No title (1930, May 21). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article160631304

In 1838 Thomas Brown, orchardist and timber merchant, buys 52 acres of DD Mathew’s land on both sides of Stoney Creek (MV) Rd with one side adjoining Brown’s Forest and Dalrymple Hay Nature Reserve. Greenwood (no 121 MV Rd) was built in 1870 but curtilage reduced to 1 ¼ acres by 1973-4 when MV Rd widened.

The Dalrymple Hay Nature Reserve may be read of in Annie Wyatt Reserve: Palm Beach. This reserve gives a glimpse, still, of what the forest was like prior to being carted away via bullocks and before the orchardists came. An Extract from that page:

A TREE SANCTUARY! In the Dalrymple Hay Forest Reserve, Pymble. Community Quilts (1933, December 27).Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 48. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165961981 

PYMBLE FOREST.

Proposal to add Ten Acres.

(BY REDGUM)

Pymble Forest, an area of almost virgin gum tree country, within a mile of the intersection of the Pacific Highway and Stony Creek road at Gordon is again a matter of public interest.

A proposal has been made by the members of the Rangers' League to purchase an additional 10 acres of the original 50 acres out of which the Crown purchased 26 ½ acres in 1925 to be held in perpetuity as an example of the beautiful woodlands of the nearer northern gullies for the days when most of the stately giant eucalypts will have vanished for ever from the more accessible landscapes within the metropolitan area.

The 10 acres It is proposed to purchase, or regain by any legitimate means, will be added to the 26 ½ acres now known as the Pymble Forest, to increase a nearby roadside reservation that is easily visible from the roadway of the Sydney Harbour bridge and while the trees hold together it will remain one of the most conspicuous and beautiful of the grey-green landmarks on the northern hillsides.

The area in question is priced at £ 1310, and at that price an option has been taken by the Rangers' League who have an assurance from the owners that the odd £310 will be handed over as a gift if a like sum is contributed by the tree-loving public for the purchase of so desirable and so lovely and so easily accessible a 10-acre forest property.

On three occasions during the last three years the Kuring-gai Municipal Council has been pleaded with to regain possession of as much of the 29 ½  acres as possible. Sympathetic consideration was given to the requests, and every effort was made that the council could make, but the purchase of further lands out of council funds was not recommended.

The Mayor and aldermen of Kuring gai have for some years been lavish in their purchase and construction of playing and recreation areas for the benefit of the ratepayers The work which the Rangers' League are now proposing to do is certain to receive the support of the aldermen and the tree-loving residents of Kuring-gai.

"Brown's Brook" was the name under which the new forest area was originally known. It lies on the south side of the Pittwater or Stony Creek road and begins a few yards of the St Ives side of Mr F. E. Pratten's well-known residence on the Telegraph-road corner, from which the Macquarie lighthouse on South Head and the blue Pacific Ocean are easily visible at any hour of the day when the sky is clear of rainclouds.

Mr. Thomas Brown held the property for many years and times almost without number refused the offers which the timber cutters made for the privilege of milling and marketing the stately and colourful grey gums, the stiingybark, the blackbutts, the bloodwoods, peppermints, and ironbaiks.

"Old Tom," as he was known to the axe-men, was as hard of heart as any of his beloved gum trees, not one of the wily wood-men of the northern hills could get him to look at the colour of their silver or gold.

' While I live those trees live with me You boys remember this," said the gum tree lover and orange grower over and over again. Had any other owner been in charge of the area, all the big tree trunks would have been chipped out and wheeled away long ago. How the Crown ever managed to get hold of the key of his gate lock I do not know. However, they did what to other people was impossible.

Mr Dalrymple Hay it was who conceived the idea of acquiring the area for a small demonstration forest I remember the metropolitan forester of that day (Mr McLeod) saying that the area was one of the prettiest and most suitable under his hand. That opinion has been confirmed time and again.

I have no hesitation in saying that my heart and interest are with the young men of the Rangers' League in their great effort to save for the nation the thousands of stalwart young eucalypts from the fate that awaits so many other splendid trees that are not so happily placed. The future belongs to the young men and to the young gum trees they so much admire. No more splendid effort has been made since the Bush Walking Clubs bought and saved the Blue Gum Forest area in the valley of the Grose.

Pymble forest is almost within the city gates. That makes it so much more valuable This proposal has already burned a hob in my shallow pocket. A call from our gum trees is irresistible. An appeal for funds has been issue b> the Rangers' League, of which the honorary treasurer is Mr Chas R Barton, 5 Macquarie-place, Sydney. 

A picture of some of the land it is proposed to purchase is to be seen on the illustrations page.

PYMBLE FOREST. (1934, March 6). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17074535 

Some other earlier settlers and the 'by-road':

Accidental Death.
On Friday afternoon, a party consisting of William Morgan, Jame Peiniiell, Joseph Waterhouse, Robert M'Intosh, and Jim Allen Jones, set out on horseback from Lane Cove, intending to proceed to Pittwater. They had proceeded about three miles along the by-road or foot-track, when Jones rode against an over hanging limb of a tree with such violence as to throw him from his horse, fracturing his skull. His companions conveyed him home, where he lingered until about six o'clock on Saturday morning, when he expired. Deceased was a tailor by trade, and until recently was a resident in Sydney.-Herald, Feb. 27. Sydney News. (1854, March 4). The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW : 1843 - 1893), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article686369 

The Robert M'Intosh referred to here is Robert McIntosh II, son of the Robert McIntosh who held land by grant at Pittwater. 

Robert McIntosh junior, aged 21, married Jane Pymble in 1830. They lived at Gordon, where they had an orchard opposite St. John’s Anglican Church. The inscription on their gravestone at St. John’s, Gordon, states that Robert was born on 4 February 1809 and died 30 June 1889, while Jane died 28 June 1882, aged 72 years. [3.]

Pymble was named after Robert Pymble (1788–1861) who acquired a land grant of 600 acres (242.8 hectares) in June 1823. Mr. Pymble was a silk-weaver from Hertfordshire, England, who arrived in Sydney with his wife and six children on board the Marquis of Wellington on 24 July 1821 as a free immigrant. Upon arriving in Sydney, Pymble hired convict labour and cleared the forest land for agriculture. By 1828 he had cleared 10 acres (4 hectares) of land east of Lane Cove Road as far as the border of Irishtown (now North Turramurra), sold the timber to lumberyards and had cultivated three acres (1.2 hectares) for orchards of orange trees. From 1826 until 1833 he served as policeman and pound keeper of the Lane Cove district.

GOVERNMENT NOTICE.
COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE, December 19th, 1826.
HIS EXCELLENCY the GOVERNOR has been pleased to approve of the following Alterations in the
Police of the ColonyIn the Town of Sydney-To be Constables
In the District of Hunter's Hill.-Robert Pymble, came free, per Marquis of Wellington, to be Constable and Poundkeeper.
In the District of Windsor.--John Roche, per Ship Earl St. Vincent (1), free by servitude, to be a Constable in the Room of Richard Hayes, Prisoner of
the Crown, permitted to resign.
At Myrtle Creek.-Joseph West, per Ship Coromandel (2) free, to be a Constable in the Room of James Hartley, per Ship Indefatigable, dismissed.
By His Excellency's Command.'
ALEXANDER M'LEAY. Advertising (1826, December 22). The Monitor (Sydney, NSW : 1826 - 1828), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article31758073

On the 6th instant, at his late residence, Lane Cove, after a  long and painful illness, Mr. Robert Pymble, sen., an old and respected colonist, in the 78th year of his age. He was one of our early settlers, having arrived in the colony with his wife and six children in the year 1821. Family Notices (1861, January 8). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13050988

FUNERAL.—The Friends of the late ROBERT PYMBLE are respectfully requested to attend his Funeral. The procession to move from his late residence, Lane Cove, THIS DAY, Tuesday afternoon, at 1 o'clock, and thence to proceed to St. Leonard's Cemetery, and arrive at 4 p.m. at the above place mentioned. REUBEN THOMAS, undertaker, 141, York-street, late of 54, King street. Family Notices (1861, January 8). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13051002

"Pymble in 1887 / showing residences of Mr James Pymble / Mr E.A. McIntosh / & Casey's house in distance / Position: Photograph taken from site of present / Railway Station facing towards Mr E.R. / Taylor's house in Grandview St."/ Mitchell Library / 30.11.37 / with complts from / Mr Justice Boyce" in ink in the same hand on the reverse. With the compliments of E.A. McIntosh on the reverse. Image No.: a1528228h, courtesy State Library of NSW.

"Taken from site of present Station / to East / Pymble 1887 / Showing residence of Mr CB Bradford in the / distance & orchard & nursery of Mr E.A. McIntosh / fruit packing shed cart & buggy shed & Miss Gaden's. / The latter was known as Wallaby Hall & was / at one time Mr E.A. McIntosh's batchelor's [sic] quarters. / The blue gum tree on the hill is still in Mr F.S. Boyce's grounds." in ink in the same hand on the reverse. With the compliments of E.A. McIntosh on the reverse. Image No.: a1528229h, courtesy State Library of NSW

Another orchardist was Vernon’s son-in-law, Philip Richardson, an Irish gentleman, a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin, sometimes known as The Squire of Rosedale.  He was said never to have worked his farm: his native-born wife Julia Vernon superintended it with much vigour.  Killeaton Street is named after Richardson’s family home in Ireland.

Other early orchardists included George Mudie, a Scot who, having worked for his father in a bakery at Circular Quay and tried his luck  on the Victorian gold fields, who bought 125 acres at £1 an acre, on the Cowan Road. Mudies Road bears his name. James Terrey, had 100 acres, now the site of the Pymble Golf Course. Mr. Terrey also owned 640 acres further east, owned for a few years by his Obadiah prior to his early deaths and later named after James Terrey - Terrey Hills - as well as land at Cottage Point. [4.]

Further east at what we now call Frenchs Forest Simeon Henry Pearce (1821–1886) and his brother James acquired 200 acres in 1853. The area was known as Rodborough and designated as being part of Manly Cove although today Rodborough Road is in Frenchs Forest and runs into Allambie Heights off the Warringah road. Part of this was acquired by James Harris French 1817 - 1893, a prominent citizen in the founding of the Municipality of North Willoughby on 23 October 1865 and where a road named for him is still. He was born in Dorset, England, to James and Mary French in 1817. James H. French junior arrived in Sydney on the Alfred in January 1841 at the age of 23 and married Mary Tiffin, a daughter of the prominent Jamaican 'Billy' Blue on 10 August 1842. To Mr. French is also ascribed the development of Forestville.

Surveyor General's Office,
Sydney the 28th January, 1857.
CHURCH OF ENGLAND CHURCH, SCHOOL, AND PARSONAGE, AT RODBOROUGH.

THE descriptions of the following portions of land are published for general information, in order-that the.persons concerned may have an opportunity of. correcting any errors or omissions that may have been made inadvertently.

At the expiration of one month from this date, if no caveat be lodged in this Office, or other issue of uncertainty appear, the Deed of Grant of the same will be executed in favour of the approved Trustees.

County of Cumberland.

One acre, 1a., parish of Manly Cove, at Rodborough; commencing at the south-eastern intersection of,the Bantry Bay Road with a road 1 chain wide, dividing it from S. H. and J. Pearce's 200 acres, and bounded on the north by the road dividing it from S. H. and J. Pearce's said 200 acres, bearing east 2 chains 50 links on the east by a line bearing south 4 chains; on the south by a line, bearing west 2 chains *50 links to the Bantry Bay Road; and on the-west by that Road bearing north 4 chains-At the point of commencement. (As Site for a church)

Two roods, 2r., parish of Manly Cove, Rodborough, commencing at the north-east corner of the Church. of England church allotment, ! on the southern side of a road 1 Sham wide, dividing it from S. H. find J. Pearce's 200 acres, and bounded on the north by that road,, bearing east 1 chain ; 25 links; on the east by a line bearing south 4 chains; on the south by a line bearing west 1. chain 25; links; and on the west by a line dividing it from Church allotment aforesaid, bearing north 4 chains, to the point of commencement. (As Site for /School.')

Two roods, 2r.,-parish of Manly Cove, at Rodborough commencing at the north-east corner of the Church of England; School allotment, on the southern side-of: a road 1 chain wide, dividing it from S. H. and J. Pearce's 200 acres, and bounded on 'the ruorfeby thatroad, bearing east 1 chain 251inks ; on the east by a line bearing south 4 chains; on the south. by a line bearing west 1 chain 28 links; and on the west by a line dividing it from the allotment aforesaid, bearing north 4 chains to the point of commencement, (a Site for a  Parsonage)

GEORGE BARNEY,

Surveyor General. CHURCH OF ENGLAND CHURCH, SCHOOL, AND PARSONAGE, AT RODBOROUGH. (1857, January 30). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 184. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229955233

Crown Land Sales at Rodborough in 1858:

CROWN LAND SALES.

The following lots of land will be offered for sale, public auction, at the undermentioned places,Wednesday, the 25th August, at 11 o'clock : (At the Land Sales' Room, Colonial Treasury, Macquarie-street, Sydney.)

SPECIAL COUNTRY LOTS.

County of Cumberland, parish of Manly Cove, at the west boundary of S. H. and J. Pearce's 200 acres at Rodborough:-Lots 3 to 5, SO», ouch ; 0,18a. : Upset price, £1 5s. per acre.

County of Cumberland, parish of Manly Cove, at Rodborough, and lying to the west of William Redman's 24 acres:-Lot 7, 12a. 3r. Op.; 8, lia. lr. 38p.j 9, li 3r. 0/. Upset price, £1 5s. per nore.

County of Cumberland, parish of Manly Cove, lying north-westerly from William Redman's 21 acres, at Rodborough :-Lots 10 and ll, 30a. 3r. 8p. each, 18 lol 20a. each. Upset price, £1 5s. per acre.

County of Cumberland, parish of Manly Cove, adjoining and lying to the north of Redman's, Jones's, and Ainsworth's portions, near Rodborough :-Lot 10, ll lr. Sip. ; 17 to 20,20a. each ; 21 to 33, 21a. each; 5 20a. lr. 24p. ; 26, 14a. lr. 24p. ; 20, 13a. ; 27 and S I 14a. lr. 24p. each. Upset price, ..

SPECIAL COUNTRY LOTS.

County of Cumberland, parish of Willoughby, lying to the south of Wright's 25 acres, and J. Nichols' 35 acres, and near the head of Burns's Bay :--Lot 1, lío.3C| Upsot price, £2 10s. per acre. Lot 2, 18a. lr, ; 9, Ul lr, 8p. Upset price, £2 per acre. Lot 4, Sis. Or. 8J« Upset price, .£1 per acre s-Lot Ö, lfla Upset price per acre. Lot 0,14a. Or. 18p. ; 7, 14a. Or. 34p. ; 8,13i 3r. 30p. Upset price, £2 10s. per acre.

County of Cumberland, parish of Willoughby, adjoining and near to the northwest boundaries of Nichols' 380 acres. Lot 0, 10a. 3r. 32p. Upset price £2 per acre. Lot 10, 12a. 2r. 20p. ; ll, 13a. Or. 33p. 13, 13a. 2r.*23p. Upset price, £2 10». por acre, w 13,18a. Or. Op. Upset prioe, £2 per aore. Lot 14, IO» Or. 18p. ; 16, lia. 3r. 38p. ; 10,13n. Or. 17p. ¡ 17, DJ. it 18p. ; 18,10a. 2r. 4p. Upset prloo, £2 lOa.por acre Lot 10, 20a. 2r. 37p. ! 30, 18n. Or. 33p. Upsot price £2 10s. per acre.

County of Cumberland, parish of Manly COVE, to the east of J. H. French's 41 acres and 12 perches, near Rodborough :-Lots 21 and 22, 13 a, 2r, 23p ; each. Upset price, £2 10s. per acre. CROWN LAND SALES. (1858, July 29). Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60426637

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER.17.
The Speaker, took the chair at half-past three o'clock.

ROAD AT MANLY COVE.

Mr. SMITH asked the honorable Secretary for Land and Works, if the sum of £100, voted by the House on the 3rd August, 1858, for opening up a road through Manly Cove has been expended ; and if so upon what road ?

In reply to this question, Mr. ROBERTSON stated that the £100 voted for opening up a road through Manly Cove, was placed at the disposal of the hon. Mr. Bligh, Mr. W. Redman, and Mr. French. Mr. French had, however, resigned the trust. Without further enquiry it was not at present known how much of the money had yet been expended. The particular road for which the money was granted was described as the new road from Bantry Bay to Rodborough, in the parish of Manly Cove. PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES. (1858, November 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13020527

View of the ford over the Lane Cove River at the tidal limit at the 'Blue Hole' circa 1860. The cart road was superceded by today's Ryde Road and Lane Cove Road linking Pymble and Ryde. Notice the pile of timber billets and the cart. Photo taken by Professor Smith (in stovepipe hat) of Sydney University. Primary Records reference number 5/2861

Middle Harbour road at Linfield circa 1900, courtesy State Library of NSW

There was and is also 'Duffy's Forest'.  This was a land grant in 1857 and he too was a timber-getter who cleared a road through the bush to Cowan Creek, where he built a stone wharf for transporting timber. The wharf is still known as Duffys Wharf and the road as Duffys Track.

Patrick Duffy (1786–1854) was a labourer until he enlisted in the British Army 3rd Regiment of Foot (known as the Buffs) for unlimited service at Sligo on 14 Sep 1805, aged 19 - he served (more below), married, had children. The Duffy family sailed on the ship 'Eliza' on the 20th, landing in Sydney on 22 November 1822.

Patrick was appointed Superintendent of the convict barrack at Parramatta. He was instructed to 'immediately report yourself'.On 21 Jul the Government Gazette reported that he was to be appointed Constable at Parramatta in the room of John Murphy, deceased.

On 3 Febuary 1830, Patrick signed a long petition to the Governor applying for a grant of land. He stated that he had been left in New South Wales when the Buffs went to India, on the recommendation of Colonel Stewart. He had been 'discharged in consequence of ...length of service and large family...was a non commissioned officer in the Buffs nearly 18 years during which time and the whole of his service Petitioner maintained an unblemished character' and '...is now labouring under very sever attacks of Rheumatism and other bodily debilities occasioned by the fatigues and wounds indured during the peninsula campaign...'

One hundred acres were granted and Patrick began to clear the land. A dispute arose with neighbours who claimed that portions of the land had been allocated to them. After the Surveyor General admitted an eror had been made, Patrick was authorised to select another plot on 6 Sep 1831 and this time, took possession of 100 acres at South Colah (now  Thornleigh).

On 23 Sep 1832, James Milson, who held land near Duffy, wrote to the Surveyor General concerning the making of the road 'Duffy's Lane'...'since that time a complaint had been made by Patrick Duffy and one Sweeney, holding a ticket of leave, that the road which was originallly marked out by Mr Abbott is inconvenient to them and insist on having a new line on road...as these persons are every day threatening and interrupting my men in their work. I shall feel obliged to your finally settling the point of dispute'. The road along the top of the ridge was then marked and confirmed. It exists today as Duffy Avenue, Thornleigh, running from Pennant Hills Road to Westleigh.

Patrick's three eldest sons had by this time left home, but each is recorded in his own right as a householder living nearby, probably on portions of their father's original grant.

The Sydney Morning Herald of 13 Apr 1854 recorded the death of Patrick; 'At his residence, Pennant Hills on the 11th inst. in the 68th year of his age, Patrick Duffy, late Sergeant of His Majesty's 3rd Buffs and father of P.J. Duffy of the firm Duffy and Mitchell, Timber Dealers, leaving a large family to deplore their loss'. He died just a few weeks after his wife:

At her residence, Pennant Hills, in the 68th year of her age, Bridget, the beloved wife of Mr Patrick Duffy, late sergeant of Her Majesty's 3rd Regiment, or Buffs, and mother of Mr P J Duffy, of the firm of Duffy and Mitchell, Timber Dealers, Market Wharf, leaving a husband and large number of children and grand-chil-dren to deplore their loss. Family Notices (1854, February 20). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12956397

Peter Joseph Duffy (1814-1878), Patrick's second son, lived at the 'George Inn' on the corner of Market and Castlereagh Streets Sydney, and in the 1840's he was a sawyer of Kent Street Sydney. His brother Patrick Michael Duffy (1825-1897) had 100 acres at the 'Parish of South Colah' (also Parish of Gordon on some maps) by 1839 - this was in what we call now Hornsby.

589. John Thorn, 640, Six hundred and forty acres, parish of South Colah, commencing at the south-west corner of Patrick Duffy's 100 acres ; and bounded on the north by that grant by part of Milsom's and by part of Samuel Horn's 320 acres 55 chains; on the east by a line south 25 degrees 30 minutes west 95 chains to the Field of Mar's Common ; on the south by that common being a line north 64 degrees west to the Pennant Hills Road 39 chains; and again by a line north 64 degrees west 60 chains; and on the north-west by a line north 62 degrees east 84 chains to the south-west corner of Patrick Duffy's 100 acres as aforesaid.  GRANTS OF LAND. (1839, September 7). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 989. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230384451

([184-]). Parish of South Colah, County of Cumberland (and section from) Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-230002153

In the Insolvent Estate of Peter Joseph Duffy, of Lane Cove, sawyer.

WHERE AS the Estate of Peter Joseph Duffy was, on the 21st day of August, 1843, placed under Sequestration in my hands by order of His Honor Mr. Justice Stephen, I hereby appoint a Meeting of the Creditors of the said Peter Joseph Duffy to be holdeh at the Supreme Court House, Sydney, on Tuesday, the 5th day of September next, to commence at 1, p.m., and end at 1.30, p.m., for proof of Debts, and election of a Trustee or Trustees for the collection, administration, and distribution of the said Insolvent's Estate; and nnless at the said Meeting it be shewn that the goods and effects of the Insolvent exceed £100, the Commissioner will summarily proceed to rank the Debts which shall be then proved, and will direct the proceeds to be distributed by the Trustees accordingly.—Dated this 23rd day of August, 1843.

WILLIAM H. KERR,
Chief Commissioner of Insolvent Estates. WHEREAS the Estate of Peter Joseph Duffy was, on the 21st day of August, 1843, (1843, August 25). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 1103. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230126502

By 1854:

WANTED, an experienced Drayman. Apply to DUFFY and MITCHELL, Timber Yard, Market Wharf.

WANTED, Sawyers and Splitters. Apply to DUFFY and MITCHELL, Timber Yard, Market Wharf. Advertising (1854, March 7). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12953339

INSOLVENT COURT.
MONDAY.

THE surrenders of the following estates were accepted by his honor the CHIEF JUSTICE.

Peter Joseph Duffy, and James Mitchell, of Sydney, timber merchants, on petition and affidavit ; schedule to be filed on or before Saturday next. Mr. Perry, official assignee. INSOLVENT COURT. (1855, August 7). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12972618

In 1857 P J Duffy was looking for more people for:

WANTED, Labourers for the Bush. Apply to PETER J. DUFFY, Brodie and Craig's Wharf.
WANTED, a Rough Carpenter for the Bush. Apply to PETER J. DUFFY, Brodie and Criag's Wharf.
WANTED, a Bullock Driver for the Bush. Apply to PETER J. DUFFY, Brodie and Craig's Wharf. Advertising (1857, January 31). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12991766

. In 1874 he is recorded as a timber-getter at Brisbane Waters. He passed away in 1878:

DUFFY. — November 18, at his residence, 472, Harris-street, Ultimo, Peter Joseph Duffy, aged 63 years, leaving a wife and a large circle of friends to mourn their loss. Family Notices (1878, November 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13413339

Funerals.
THE FRIENDS of the deceased Mr. PETER JOSEPH DUFFY are respectfully invited to attend his Funeral ; to move from his late residence, Harris-street, Ultimo, THIS AFTERNOON, at 2 o'clock, to Necropolis. THOMAS, Undertaker, 141, York-street.
GRAND UNITED ORDER OF ODDFELLOWS. — GRANDMASTERS' COUNCIL. — All Members of the Grandmasters' Council are requested to attend the Funeral of our late esteemed Brother, P.G.M. PETER JOSEPH DUFFY ; to move from his late residence, Harris-street, Ultimo, at a quarter-past 2 o'clock, THIS DAY.
JOHN BARRACLOUGH, G.M.
HENRY STOCK, G. Sec. GRAND UNITED ORDER OF ODDFELLOWS, SYDNEY DISTRICT. — The Officers and Brothers of the various Lodges are requested to attend the Funeral of our late esteemed Brother P.G.M. PETER JOSEPH DUFFY, of the Travellers' Home Lodge, 731, to meet at his late residence, Harris-street, Ultimo, at a quarter-past 2 o'clock, THIS DAY,
HENRY STOCK, D.M.
GEORGE BRETNALL, D. Sec.
GRAND UNITED ORDER OF ODDFELLOWS,
SYDNEY DISTRICT.
The Officers and Brothers of the Travellers Home Lodge, together with the officers and brothers of the various lodges, are re-quested to attend the Funeral of our late esteemed Brother, P. N. F. PETER JOSEPH DUFFY, to meet at his late residence, Harris-street, Ultimo, at a quarter-past 2 o'clock, THIS DAY. JAMES BOYLE, N. G., CHARLES HOULAND, Secretary. Family Notices (1878, November 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article28392986

John Frederick Duffy, Orchadist with residence listed as 'Mona Vale, Pittwater', and who had a son of the same name, born at Thornleigh in 1895, who was also an Orchadist and a driver in WWI, was Warringah Shire President 1915-1918 and Councillor thereafter:

SHIRE OF WARRINGAH.
NOTICE is hereby given that Councillor John Frederick Duffy has been duly elected President of the Shire of Warringah for the term commencing 1st proximo.
R. G. JAMIESON,
Shire Hall, Brookvale, Shire Clerk.
22nd February, 1915. SHIRE OF WARRINGAH. (1915, March 3). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1471. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226909386

WEDDING BELLS DUFFY-WHITE. On Saturday, 19th instant, at St. St. Jame's Church, King-street, Sydney, the pretty wedding of Miss Rita Florence White, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick White of Manly, (late of Parramatta), and Mr. John Frederick Duffy, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Duffy of Mona Vale, Manly, was solemnised by Rev. J. Russell. 

The church was beauty-fully decorated with choice white blooms, and the guest pews tied with true lovers knots. The organist presided at the organ, and during the signing of the register, "Beloved it is Morn,', was sung by Miss Kathleen Lovell (cousin of the bride). The bride who was given away by her father wore a beautiful scintillating bridal gown of ivory georgette over silver tissue, with underskirt of jewelled embroidery. The court train was of pink tulle and ninon, draped with silver lace, held in place by clusters of silver roses. With her tulle veil, she wore a band of silver tissue and trail of orange blossom. Her bouquet of roses and carnations with tulle and silver streamers, and a cheque were the gifts of the bridegroom. Two brides-maids were in attendance, Misses Louie Flook (bride's cousin) and Elvie Duffy (bridegroom's sister), prettily and effectively frocked respectively in shaded mauve, and champagne pleated crepe de ehene, worn with hats to match; their bouquets to tone and gold armlet and diamond brooch were the bridegroom's gifts. Mr. Ritchie White (bride's brother) was best man, and Mr. Stan White (bride's brother), grooms man. Mrs. White (bride's mother) wore orchid mauve floral georgette, over brocaded tissue, and large crinoline hat of fuchsia shade. She carried a posy of pansies, red roses and lavender. Mrs. Duffy (bridegroom's mother) black morocain, trimmed with white pleated georgette, black hat. Her posy was of scarlet roses. After the ceremony a reception was held at Sargent's, Market-street, about 100 guests being present. Mr. P. Winston presided, and the usual toasts were honored. Later Mr. and Mrs. J..P. Duffy left for the Jenolan Caves, where the honeymoon is being spent.  WEDDING BELLS (1925, December 23). The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 - 1950), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article103769683

£150 DESTROYED IN COTTAGE FIRE
A weatherboard cottage owned by Mr. John Duffy In Waratah Street, Mona Vale, was destroyed by fire yesterday afternoon, just after Mr. Duffy had completed arrangements for Its sale.

In trying to save £150 In notes in one of the rooms Mr. Duffy suffered cuts and scorched hands, but the money was burnt with the exception of a few silver coins. It is not known how the fire started. £150 DESTROYED IN COTTAGE FIRE (1943, December 13). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17878955

The McIntosh-Pymble and Duffy connection is not the only between St. Ives and Pittwater as William Henry McKeown, who was later to own acreage of the 'Rosedale' once held by Daniel Mathew, was also among those who were responsible for erecting the Chapel at Church Point and was named as he who conducted services under a tree at Bayview prior to that. There is more on himself and his orchard below but he also had chickens:

THE FAMOUS LANE COVE LANGSHANS
Mr. W. H. McKeowns Poultry. 
A TRIP TO GORDON (ERTSWHILE LANE COVE)

ON Saturday lost we had the pleasure of paying a visit to Mr. W. H. McKeown's Poultry Farm at Gordon (Lane Cove), where are to be seen—as the majority of people interested in poultry know —some of the most creditable specimens of the Langshan breed of fowls to be found this side of the line. The renown of Mr.  W. H. McKeown's Langshans, we need scarcely remark, has travelled throughout New South Wales, and is not unknown in the other colonies. Without an effort towards making any artificial display, the gentleman named has—by simply rearing first-class birds, and doing business in the good, old-fashioned, best system, of faithfully giving customers that treatment which he professes to give—scored so heavily that to confess to an ignorance of the merits of his strain is to confess one's self a stranger to Langshan fowls in Australia. Mr. McKeown e has bred, during his 48 years residence in the district which is now proud to claim him as a leading resident, many good varieties of feathered stock; but he confesses that the Langshans have triumphed in the end. A. few game pullets, and a decent-looking rooster, and the Last of the Mohic ---the Spanish, we should say—just preserve a semblance of caste superiority, over the odd barn-doors,picking about the place; but the days of even these few survivors of past glories, are numbered. 

The Langshans have " cut out" all the old favourites, and—with Mr. McKeown—have evidently come to stay. In this connection we may perhaps quote with a advantage, a few lines published by Mr. McKeown (with reference to the particular breed under notice) some years back. The remarks still hold good, the only thing which remains to be added being, that the value of the last lines may now be emphasized more than ever. Mr. McKeown, in the little publication referred to, says:—

" I bought a cock and three hens . . . and by the amalgamation of the strains, and careful mating, I have succeeded in raising birds which have won many prizes at the Sydney shows, and are superior to any imported Langshans I saw; in Christchurch, N.Z. . . , . I have-proved the Langshan to be one of the best all round of the many breeds of fowls. They are good layers, grand table fowls, and very hardy. . . . The young ones develop so well that it is difficult to distinguish pullets which I have of nine months,from the old hens." 

On a road or lane leading from the old "Lane Cove Road," off towards Pittwater, is Mr. McKeown's homestead. It stands on the crest of a rise, and the orchard slopes away from the proprietor's residence, towards the north-east, giving an aspect, for t tne cultivated land, Such as is generally coveted by the settlers when marking out his future holding. Over "billows" of rolling uplands the view stretches out towards the rugged country, on the coast, near Marrabeen. The .glimpses of the country inland, when the visitor turns, and looks out westerly, are charming. The land dips deeply in the near front, and then rises to bear, on the crest of the next wave, so to speak, the old main road, and the new steel-way, both running upwards and onwards towards Hornsby. Then, beyond, and far • away over the charming stretches of fields, rich in their emerald mantles of young crops, or with brown soil just turned in regular furrows by the yeoman's plough are forest land, and the homesteads of Field of Mars, Carlingford, and Ryde;— In the centre of these attractive surroundings,-is Mr. McKeown's orchard, with its old-fashioned cottage residence, numerous outbuildings, and poultry yards.. It seems most natural that the birds thrive, and prosper,—till their renown spreads through the country, carrying proudly into other districts the fame of their breeder. They would be most ungrateful Langshans, were it otherwise! 

The fast-developing town of Gordon is reached, either by road or rail. In the latter case, a pleasant trip may be taken via Sydney, the visitor crossing the harbour, landing at Milson's Point, and taking the new line through St. Leonard's to Chatswood, and so on, to the spot known in the " good old days" as Lane Cove. This is, of course, an interesting trip, and, the day we ; made it, the country was at its best; the scent from the clearings—busy with "bush" labour—and the sight of the glorious wattle bloom,brightening every yard of the route—tending to make the .journey a perfect dream of delight. After a fairly long walk from Gordon station, we reached our destination. Greeted cordially by our host, we were soon perfectly, at home and before many minutes had flown were "doing" the place. We first crossed the road to the poultry pens on the part of the proprietor's estate lying nearest the railway. Here we caught our first glimpse of the renowned Langshans. The rooster in the first yard passed was in-prize at Newcastle late show. 

A taken at spme of our host's Game «idj| fewSpitnisn came upon more of lhe |» this farm—a number of splendid hens, with a couple of disti Dgulshed looking. mates, of almoit f>erfebt shape and feather. One bird, particularly. attractive, was a rooster which 'it would not be easy to best, in this class any where in this part of the-world. A few others, in pens close by claimed attention also, it being difficult to differentiate, in relation to merit, between the birds. 

Retracing our steps, we passed the home-stead again; and inspected the pens on, the other side of the farm. Here a magnificent Langshan prince was met with, whose only fault was a slightly defective comb. Otherwise, he would perhaps have ranked, oh bis merits, as the first rooster of his class in , Australia. As he was, he took a prize, a little while ago, in the Melbourne Show, after most critical examination, and against, of course, a strong opposition. . In homes near by, were birds differing in characteristics;. bat al boasting that distinctive aristocratic shape, plumage, and mein, which make conspicuous the well-bred fowls already dealt with in detail. 

Mr. McKeown, having come at last to the end of his feathered trophies, led the way to the dog kennels and here, a surprise quite as genuine as any in connection with the birds, awaited us. Finer specimens of St. Bernard's we never wish to see (—and how they are treated at this week's Exhibition will not be uninteresting to those who have a kindly corner in Aeir hearts for man's faithful friend!) The puppies—great lumbering, frolicsome, affectionate, fluffy young lions, they looked— greeted us with never-ceasing manifestations of interest and delightal most tumbling us- over meanwhile. Words can hardly give an idea of the " high degree " of these canine beauties; but figures may—and when we say, that one of Mr. McKeown's St. Bernard's is a relative, by immediate descent, of an animal whose price was fixed at £1,400, we may have said sufficient for the purpose. 

The illustration at the head of this article gives a very good idea of the Langshan—the type of bird bred, and shown with success, by Mr. McKeown. It may be said, finally, that many poultry fanciers, and more especially men and women who expect to make a business by raising the most profitable breed of fowls known in New South Wales, will only be doing a natural thing if in'future they watch for the honoured name of W. H. McKeown, in the Langshan classes, when the prize-lists of our different big shows are being published. THE FAMOUS LANE COVE LANGSHANS. (1893, August 26). The Cumberland Mercury (Parramatta, NSW : 1875 - 1895), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article249016039

Pittwater Affairs.
A meeting of the residents of Pittwater was held on Saturday evening at Bolton's Hotel, for the purpose of urging the Government to make the road from the Lagoon to Newport. Mr. Crawford, who was appointed chairman, in a neat speech, explained the object of the meeting and drew attention to state of the road which, in some parts was almost impassable, he stated that he was convinced it was only necessary to brine the matter under the notice of the Minister for Works to get the work done. After several forcible and appropriate speeches were made the following gentlemen were appointed to wait upon the Minister.— Messrs. M'Keon, Drs. Tebbut, O’Riley, James, and F. Smith. At the conclusion of the business a concert was given by a number of ladies and gentlemen, (visitors from Sydney), and a most enjoyable evening was spent. Pittwater Affairs. (1883, March 27).Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article107230268 

The road itself:

23181 Department of Mines, Sydney, 1st May. 1883.
FORMAL OPENING OF A PARISH ROAD.
NOTICE is hereby given thit the line of Parish Road mentioned in the annexed Schedule has been formally marked and opened by the proper officer, and that the same is now open for public use.  JOSEPH P. ABBOTT.
Schedule. Roads No. 83-1349 81-500-14 SG, R.8810
Description of Road. 
Road from the Stony Creek Head to the Lane Cove Road, at Wright's Hill, parish of Gordon, county of Cumberland, being part of the road from Lane Core to Pittwater.
Date of Gazette of last Notice. 10 June, 1881, folio 3146. Plan, &c., lodged at the Police Office at— Ryde. FORMAL OPENING OF A PARISH ROAD. (1883, May 1). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 2303. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225725410

TENDERS ACCEPTED.-The following tenders have been accepted : ... M'Gee and Brennan, Lane Cove road, £300 0s. D. Bailey, road Lane Cove to Pittwater, £543 18s. 7d.  GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. (1887, July 30).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), , p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13652337 

The rail link to Pearce's corner/Hornsby opening in 1890 was the next phase of development which may have meant improvements along the old bullock track. The push to extend suburbia and open up heretofore inaccessible areas would allow subdivisions:

NORTH SHORE TO PEARCE'S CORNER RAILWAY.

The adoption by the Government of a tender, under certain conditions, for the construction of n railway from Pearce's Corner to St. Leonards has caused general satisfaction, as this work is looked upon as a necessary one, and will afford employment to a large number of men out of work. The length of the proposed line is 10 miles r.O chain., and the estimated cost, for the work of construction only, is about £12,000 a mile. The line at Pearce's Corner will form a junction with the Southern and Northern Junction railway at 20 miles 03 chains 10.3 links. From Pearce's Corner the line runs in a southeasterly direction through the county of Cumberland, parish of Gordon, and then through the county of Cumberland, parish of Willoughby, and at the St. Leonards terminus the nearest portions of the harbor to the station will be Neutral Bay and Lavender Bay. 

During Mr. Lyne's tenure of office, when the matter was prominently considered, almost the the whole of the landowners on the route of the proposed line came forward and undertook to give the land that might be required for the line free, with the exception of one large fil and-it is understood that the owners of the land are disinclined to fulfil the obligation morally entered into, and the present Government, it appears, are determined that the construction of the railway shall only be conditional upon all the land, as promised, being conveyed free to the Crown. It is supposed that the Government have under consideration a proposal for a tramway line along the main road, which would require no purchase of land whatever; and, failing the agreement of the owners to give the land required, it is thought that probably the Government will take into consideration the propriety of making a tramway, which could be constructed at a quarter of the cost of a railway and which at the same time would he suitable for all requirements. 

The estimated value of the land through which the railway will pass is a little over £60, 000. The various properties through which the line passes are very numerous. Of about 305 sections of land touched by the line only 41 belong to the Crown. The remainder are owned by about 110 persons. A glance at the map which is published herewith will show how numerous are the blocks of land affected by the line, and it is right to suppose tun: if the area required for railway purposes were given, the gift would be more than repaid by the improvement to the other portions of the land by the introduction of the railway. The largest quantity of land required by the Goverumeut from any one individual is not more than 6a. 2r. and 11p., and this is bush land. Messrs. John Brodie, sen., and J. Brodie, jun., are the owners of about 5a. of bush country wanted. The land required from nearly all the owners is on an average less in area than 1r. Owing to the large number of the allotments cut by the line and their small size, we are unable to do what we had wished to do — namely, indicate on the allotments shown on our plan the names of their owners. 

The following streets among others will be intersected by the proposed line: Lane Cove-road, Stony Creek-road, Mount William-street, Park-avenue, Harold-street, Occupation-road, all in the parish of Gordon ; also, Albert-street, William-street, Ashley-street, Anderson-street, Wilson-street, Day-street. Railway-street, M'lntosh-street. Help-street, Brown-street. Victoria-avenue, Thomas-street, Carlotta-street and O'Brien-street, in the parish of Willoughby. 

A great deal of the land on the route is bush land and allotments, and there are a few paddocks and orchards. The proposed line, beginning at Pearce's Corner, runs almost parallel with the Lane Cove-road for the first nine miles, only cutting it in two places, namely, at the third mile and the fourth. 

The following is a list of the names of the owners of the land required for the purposes of the railway :-Messrs. Ross, Robertson and M'Rae, 2a.2r.lp.; Richard Archibald, ua. lr. 13p. ; Precious and Doust, 5a.; J. and J. Brodie, 5a. ; Harnett and Smart, la. 2r. ; Henry Cornwall, 4a. lr. ; Win. M'Intosh, 4a. lr. ; Wm. M'Gillivry, 4a.; John Dawson, 3a.; trustees of the late Sir Alexander Stuart, 3r. 26p. ; William Graccy, Jacob Dreis, Penny, Herbert Fowler, Henry Ingram, Frank Mooney, Patrick Noonan, J. B. Lucas, Joseph Dobson, R. B. Smith, Reuben Sawyer, trustees late J. F. Jones. Henry Hare, E. Keen, Daniel Ryan. E. K. Wilson, W. Ray, Peter Gilvov, Port Jackson Land and Investment Company, M'Millan, J. W. M'Mabon, H. A. Brady, It. Porter, jun., It. Porter, sen., J. It. Porter, M. Porter, G. M'Intosh, J. Jones, Osbourne, M. O'Grady, E. M'Intosh, U. and C. Buckingham, W. M'Keown, A. Menzies, J. Vernon, G. K. M'Intosh, W. L M'Intosh, R. Precious, G. Precious, H. Moorhouse, T. Stead, jun., G. Norton TL Kitching, R. Neville, J. G. Edwards, A. J. Brady, J. Johnston, William Braharn, W. Bickle. J. Kent, J. Burns, Erwin, trustees of the late R. leeldon, J. F. Montgamery, T. Coleman, It. Archibald, G. Archi-Frauds Lord, Sydney and Suburban Mutual Permanent Building and Land Investment Association, J. Houghton, P. B. Treatt, E. Bains, John Basskan, E. H. Day, P. F. Richardson, Thomas Dalton, J. Walsh, H. Peduleson, F. Murphy, James Medley. J. F. Burns, Edward Lee, John Cardwell, W. L. Korsley, G. .Tunes, E. E. Brett, John Clatworthy, T. Broughton, Dr. On Lee, Captain Pockley, Captain Craig, Rev. George M'Intosh, Mesdames Drewitt, Annie Hill, Jane Pymble, Edwards, E. Macmahon, Annie M'lntosh, Powell, Misses E. M-Intosh and Gazely. 

The total area required from Pearce's Corner up to Mr. Berry's land is 193a. 2r. 39 2/3p. It is at this point that the St. Leonards end of the line will terminate. 

NORTH SHORE TO PEARCE'S CORNER RAILWAY. (1887, June 29). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239811498

The North Shore Railway.

The following are the general conclusions at which the Public Works Committee have arrived in reference to the North Shore railway :— The proposed railway is enormously expensive, and being so, every precaution should be taken before the expenditure is authorised, to see that, if constructed, the line will prove remunerative. 

The circumstances attending the construction of the present North Shore railway, and the present condition and prospects of North Shore being such as to show that the original plan in regard to passenger traffic on this rail way was not misconceived, there is nothing on those grounds to prove that this, railway, assisted by adjuncts other than the proposed connecting line to Milson's Point, will not meet public requirements for at least some years. 

The proposed railway, if constructed, would be useless to the great majority of the present and future population of North Shore, inasmuch as most of the settlement in the suburb is, and will continue to be, to the east of the proposed line. 

The prospect of a large population along the North Shore railway, travelling to and fro similar to what is to be seen on the suburban railways starting from Redfern, is not free from considerable doubt. A through passenger traffic is a matter of great uncertainty. 

The evidence respecting the subject of a goods traffic is contradictory and inconclusive, and generally of such a nature as to show that the question of goods traffic has not been thoroughly and satisfactorily considered. 

By extending the present -tramway for a short distance, at very small cost 'compared with the estimated cost of the proposed railway, and making provision for improving the running of the frame, at certain times of the day, in point of speed and frequency of journeying, public requirements could be met, the North Shore railway utilised, and the great expense of constructing the proposed railway avoided. 

As a bridge to carry a railway may be constructed between Sydney .and North Shore within the next few year--, it is necessary to provide for a connection of the railway crossing the bridge with the railway at North Shore on a high level, and this requirement would not be met by the proposed extension to Milson's Point. The evidence taken in the inquiry was considered by the committee on Tuesday, November 5, and the following extract from the minutes of the meeting will show the resolution which was passed:— 

Mr. Dowel moved, — ' That the committee consider it expedient that the proposed railway' to connect the North Shore railway with the deep waters of Port Jackson at Milson's Point, as referred to them by the Legislative Assembly, be carried out.' Mr. Garrard seconded the motion. The motion was negatived, after discussion, on the following division :— Ayes, 5 : Dr. Garran, Mr. Humphery, Mr. Garrard, Mr. Dowel, Mr. Hurley. Noes, 8 : Mr. Abbott, Mr. Lackey, Mr. Trickett. Mr. C'ux, Mr. Copeland, Mr. Tonkin, Mr. O'Sullivan, Mr. Lee. 

Mr. Trickett moved, — 'That the committee do not consider it expedient that the proposed rail way to connect the North Shore Railway with the deep waters of Port Jackson at Milson's Point, as referred to them by the Legislative Assembly, be carried out.' The motion was seconded by Mr. Lackey, and passed on the following division : —Ayes, 8 : Mr. Abbott. Mr. Lackey, Mr. Trickett, Mr. Cos, Mr. Cope) and, Mr. Tonkin, Mr. O'Sullivan, Mr. Lee. Noes, 5 : Dr. Garran, Mr. Humphrey, Mr. Garrard, Mr. Dowel, Mr. Hurley. (Signed) J. P. Abbott, Chairman. Sydney, December 11. The North Shore Railway. (1889, December 28). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 1423. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article162066095

North Shore railway terminus (St Leonards) c1890s nla.obj-142827586-1_0

The North Shore Line was opened on January 1st, 1890 as a single track between Hornsby and St Leonards. The line was finally extended to the Sydney Harbour foreshore at Milsons Point on May 1st, 1893. From 1890 on the subdivisions commenced, as did the calls for new roads and improvements to those already in place:

THE APPROACH TO GORDON RAILWAY STATION.

The question of opening a road from the Gordon railway station along the eastern boundary of Mr. Matthew's land was also placed before the Minister of Lands by a deputation yesterday. A petition in favour of the work was presented, and it was stated that the deputation would guarantee subscriptions to the amount at £200 towards the cost.

Mr. Brunker read reports from officers of the department, which were quite opposed to the work being done. These, however, had been made sometime since, and the contentions were, in part, repudiated by the deputation. The Minister promised to call for a fresh report, and to inform the deputation of his decision. THE APPROACH TO GORDON RAILWAY STATION. (1890, October 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13791918

TELEGRAPH-ROAD, GORDON.

Yesterday Mr Howarth M L A , introduced a deputation of the residents of Pymble and St Ives to the Minister for Works to request that Telegraph-road in the Gordon district should be classed as a first class schedule road and should receive an annual vote. It was pointed out that the proposed increased expenditure would result in a corresponding decreased expenditure on Stoney Creek-road. The principal traffic to the Pymble station would be greatly benefited if the wishes of the deputation were granted.

The Minister, in reply, said he was not prepared to say that the relative value of Telegraph road was such as to entitle him to regard it as a main artery of traffic and to expend a large amount of money on it. The view taken by some of the superior officers of the department last year is that more money was spent in the North Shore district than its reasonable claims warranted. Also it had been pointed out that in a district in which the population was increasing and which was close to the great centres of population the residents might do something for themselves by way of incorporation. He could not promise to do anything for them until after the Estimates were passed. Then he would call for a further report. He would never schedule a road within 20 miles of Sydney unless it was a main artery of traffic. TELEGRAPH-ROAD, GORDON. (1898, November 4). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14183376 

OVER THE LANE COVE RIVER.
TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, Kindly permit me to correct a statement which occurs in your issue of this morning. Under the heading "Over the Lane Cove River" are the statements, that till lately it was understood that the bridge (the proposed Lane Cove River bridge) was to be built lower down the river, either at Moubray-road or at Fuller's-road, the aldermen of Willoughby and Lane Cove having agreed In conference to leave to the department the final decision as to which of these two sites was the more desirable. But then the people of Pymble and thereabouts 'arrived' suddenly with a scheme for a bridge at the head of the navigable portion, of the river, and obtained something very like a promise from Mr. Lee." 

As an old resident of this district— one who distinctly remembers the whole history of the bridge movement— I can assure you that the foregoing statements are Incorrect. Over 80 years ago the residents' of Gordon and Ryde agitated for the construction of a bridge across the river at a spot only a few yards from where it is now proposed to erect It. Repeatedly during the last 80 years has the agitation been revived by the residents of Gordon and Ryde, and during that time surveys have been made, estimates given, and even a sum of  money put on the Estimates for carrying out the undertaking at the head of navigation. Many years after what may be called the commencement of the Pymble agitation it was suggested by the Willoughby Council (and old members of the council, such as Alderman Forsyth, will doubtless confirm my statements) that the building of the bridge at Fuller's-road would better serve the interests of Willoughby, and that an effort should be made to block the Gordon proposal. 

Since then every effort made by the northern districts to have the work carried out— which has been repeatedly promised by Ministers of the Crown — has been opposed by our Willoughby friends, with the result that Willoughby, which, in the writer's opinion, does not require the bridge, is unable to get it, and Pymble cannot get it either. 

Mr. Lee certainly, fully understood the question when he decided the bridge should be put at the head of navigation, and promised the residents that he would have the work carried out at once. Chatswood, Willoughby, and Hunter's-Hill are well served, by the bridge at the Fig Tree. This bridge is approached by good roads both from Hunter's Hill and Willoughby, whilst to make roads and approaches to a bridge at Fuller's-road would probably cost six or seven thousand pounds. If, too, another bridge is required, surely it should be put half-way between Wahroonga and the present Fig Tree bridge, otherwise only the southern part of the districts will be served. 

Moreover, all the main roads through Hunter's-hill, Ryde, Marsfield, Eastwood, Carlingford, etc., converge to the head of navigation, whilst on the other side of the river the road from Manly through French's Forest, from Pittwater, from Sugar Loaf, and from the head of Cowan all junction with Stoney Creek-road, which is a production of the main highway from Hunter's-Hill. From Fig Tree Bridge to where Fuller's-road junctions with the river is not much over two miles, and it would be unwise to place two bridges close to each other whilst all the rest of the river remained without bridge accommodation. Unless the Government is prepared to erect bridges at Intervals of two miles tile whole river length, then there is but one place for the bridge, and that to at the head of navigation. — Yours, etc., JAMES G. EDWARDS. "Killara," September 13. OVER THE LANE COVE RIVER. (1899, September 15). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article237194089 

Kerry image, circa 1900

This isn't Mona Vale road but lends insight into how, if a place 'now becoming populated' couldn't get a look in than a place further out wasn't going to have much done either - the railway was it. This road eventually got the go-ahead in 1901 but ran and runs, alongside the Lane Cove river.

THE RYDE TO PITTWATER ROAD.

The desirableness of Governmental action being taken to put the main road from Ryde to Pittwater in proper repair was pressed upon the notice of the Minister for Works yesterday by a deputation from the Ryde and Hunter's-Hill Municipal Council. Replying, Mr. O'Sullivan stated that the report of the departmental engineer was against the work being done by the Government, but he would look carefully into the matter and see what could be done.  THE RYDE TO PITTWATER ROAD. (1900, June 8). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article237329893 

PITTWATER-ROAD.
The need of putting part of the road from the Ryde district to the sea coast at Pittwater into repair was brought under the notice of the Minister for Works yesterday by residents of Ryde and neighbourhood. It was a main road and a military road at one time, and passed through Crown lands, and, with the opening of the bridge over the Lane Cove would have a considerable traffic. The Minister said the report of the officer was against the proposal. He would, in view of their representations, look further into the matter. PITTWATER-ROAD. (1900, June 8). The Australian Star (Sydney, NSW : 1887 - 1909), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229378260 

The Pittwater Road Trouble Ended 

An Expenditure of £11600. Forty Men to be Put on.

The dangerous and almost impassable Pittwater-road, a portion of which forms the boundary between the Ryde and Hunter's Hill municipalities, has for a long time been a source of anxiety to the Ryde Council and to those unfortunate ratepayers who have been compelled to use it. Being a main military road, it has always been contended that it should at least be put in an efficient state of trafficable order by the Government, notwithstanding the fact that it traverses the municipalities of Ryde and Hunter’s Hill. 

During the last administration, it was contended by the then Minister for Works (Mr. Young) that the Hunter's Hill and Ryde Councils were jointly liable for its repair and maintenance, and all the Councils could got was a small annual subsidy towards keeping it in repair. This they have consistently refused to accept for years, as they considered acceptance would mean a recognition of a liability which they were not prepared to admit. The result was that these annual votes lapsed and the road lapsed too — into a dangerous and disgraceful condition. In fact, it has been described as positively the worst road in the entire estate. However, this very undesirable state of affairs is to be altered very shortly. A letter was read at the last meeting of the Ryde Council from Mr. Frank Farnell, M.P., conveying the welcome intelligence that on his representations the Minister for Works had decided to put 10 men at work on Pittwater-road early on the following week to place it in an efficient state of repair. The estimated cost of the work, Mr. Farnell added, was £1600. All the men employed on the work, he further stated, would be engaged at the Labour Bureau, he had no power to recommend anyone for employment — all would have to register at the Bureau. The announcement that this much needed work was at last to be undertaken was received with general satisfaction, though the Council would have preferred very much to have had the control of the expenditure of the large sum stated. The Council has not much faith in the value of Labour Bureau work. Alderman Sutton expressed the opinion that the carrying out of the work by day labor in the manner stipulated, meant the wasting of at least £1000.

The Pittwater Road Trouble Ended. (1901, November 9). The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 - 1950), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article85828930 

In March 1901 the Lane Cove bridge was opened, officially! - and eased the way to Pittwater, but this is not Mona Vale road coming into its own either:

THE LANE COVE BRIDGE AND THE FIELD OF MARS TRAM.
(PHOTOS. BY F. LEE, ULTIMO.)

GROUP OF Ms.L.A., VISITORS, MAYORS, AND ALDERMEN OF THE SURROUNDING DISTRICT AT THE OPENING OF THE LANE COVE BRIDGE.

THE BRIDGE AT LANE COVE.

Lane Cove Bridge and Field of Mars Tramway.
(See illustrations on this and previous page.)

Mr. O'Sullivan, State Minister for Public Works, officially visited Ryde on Saturday. The opening of the Lane Cove Bridge and the turning of the first sod of the Field of Mars tramway at Gladesville, with refreshments, speeches, and a banquet was the programme, and each portion thereof was carried out to the satisfaction of all concerned. There was a numerous attendance of residents of the various localities Interested in the two works, and a number of city gentlemen took advantage of the opportunity to visit some very pretty scenery and make themselves better acquainted with the results of the industry of the people who will be directly benefited by the bridge and tramway. Different routes were taken by the visitors. One small party drove from the Ridge-street tram section. North Sydney, and enjoyed a very pleasant journey, calling en route at the residence of Mr.  G. Howarth, M.L.A., to partake of refreshments. Upon arrival at the bridge a welcome was ac corded by the members of the executive commitee. The construction of this work connects the road from Sydney to Pittwater and Broken Bay, via Gladesville and Pymble, and its position is at the point of navigation about three miles on the Ryde and Gladesville side of Pymble. The river at this point runs in a gorge about 200ft below the level of the surrounding country. The bridge ls 300ft in length, the deepest part of the gorge being crossed by a single span of 165ft-the largest of its kind in the colony, if not in Australia. This span is an under truss, a type of construction which, as Mr. O'Sullivan explained, was found successful in America.

It was further set forth in an official document describing the work that "a combination of steel and ironbark timber used in its construction has produced a bridge of great strength, rigidity, and lightness." The estimated cost of the bridge and immediate approaches was £3500; but the approaches, since the work has started, have been much extended, as well as metalled and fenced, bringing the total cost to close on £4000. The work was constructed by the Bridges Branch of the Works Department, the only contracts let being for the supply of steel and timber, and the manufacture of the steel and iron work, the latter having been placed with Messrs. Pope, Maher, and Company, of Darlington.

It was intended that the ribbons should have been cut by Miss O'Sullivan, but the Minister explained, in apologising for her absence, that the day happened to be her birthday, and she was engaged elsewhere. The ceremony was, therefore, performed by Master Frank O'Sullivan.

THE LANE COVE BRIDGE AND THE FIELD OF MARS TRAM.

(PHOTOS BY F. LEE, ULTIMO.)

THE HON. E. W. O'SULLIVAN TURNING THE FIRST SOD OF THE FIELD OF MARS TRAMWAY.

After the due delivery of the necessary speech es a small knot o£ residents formed, with Mr. O'Sullivan in the centre, and half an hour was spent in explaining the needs of the district in several directions. Refreshments, chiefly liquid, were consumed, and the party set out for Gladesville in numerous vehicles, admiring the picturesque scenery and the practical signs of the fertility of the country en route. At Gladesville there was a little display of bunting, and the presence of a body of mounted police and a number of the local members of the Defence Force imparted some dignity to the function of turning the first sod of the Field of Mars Tramway.

In asking the Minister to perform this little ceremony, for which a green plot had been placed in the centre of the road. Mr. G. E. Herring spoke a few appropriate words, in which Mr. O'Sullivan was described as a "Good Samaritan," who had ; not failed to give assistance where he saw it was; required. The residents had been euchred out of the tram for many years, but now they were going to see the straight game played, and the Minister was going to "lead spades." In turning the sod, the Minister expressed the conviction that it was only the beginning of a tram line that would eventually go to Woolwich. After lusty cheers, the company sat down to a banquet, which had been prepared in the Drill Hall.

THE LANE COVE BRIDGE AND THE FIELD OF MARS TRAM. (1901, March 2). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71464262

NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT.

APPLICATIONS hating been made to bring the lands hereunder described under the provisions of the Heal Property Act, Certificates of Indefeasible Title will issue, unless Caveats be lodged in accordance with the Third Schedule to the said Act, on or before the date named opposite each case respectively.

Property.

No. 11,361. County of Cumberland, parish of Gordon, 9 acres 2 roods 26 ¾ perches, situated near Pymble, adjoining the properties of J. Terrey, — Ashdown, D. Stuart, and T. Brown,—is lot C of a subdivision of lot No. 5 of the Rosedale Estate, and part of 800 acres (portion No. 15 of parish) granted to Daniel Dering Mathew. NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT. (1901, December 13). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 9524. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article226391586 

A fete at Pymble in 1902, attended by well over one thousand people, shows the shift from orchards towards residential areas was already taking place:

OPEN AIR FETE AT PYMBLE, SATURDAY. NOVEMBER 8.
In Aid of the Royal North Shore Hospital.

The people of Pymble, acknowledging the claim of the new northern suburbs hospital for support, decided to organise a fete, the proceeds of which would be handed over to the North Shore Hospital committee to augment the funds of the new building, portion of which is now nearing completion.

 A committee, consisting of Dr. O'Reilly (president). Dr. Kottman, Rev. J. Marshall, Rev. Father Kirby, S.J., Messrs. T. H. Jackson, C. M. Buck (treasurer), A. Cooper, F. S. Willis, W. A. Gilder, M. Blake, W. A. Roof, P. Hepworth, and J. G. Hull (hon. secretary) was formed and it was decided that the demonstration should take the form of an open air fete. Every arrangement was made to ensure the success of the movement, and the residents responded liberally.

On Saturday some 1500 people attended the fete, which was held in a large paddock close to the railway station, the formal opening being performed by Mr. Dugald Thomson, M.IL.A, who during the course of a few remarks congratulated the committee upon the excellence of the arrangements, and wished the function every success. 

The grounds were gay with bunting, and several tents had been erected, where refreshments, confectionery, flowers, and fancy goods were procurable. Proceedings were enlivened with music supplied by the Police and Fifth Regiment (Scottish Rifles) bands.

The attractions were varied and interesting, all the side shows and other entertainments being well patronised. The children of the Gordon Public school gave a creditable dumb-bell display, and amongst the numerous attractions were maypole dances, woodchipping contests, fancy dress, cricket match, fancy -dress tug-of-war, catching the greasy pig, treacle bun contest, punch and judy shows, Aunt Sally shooting galleries, pony riding, gramophone selection and palmistry. Collecting boxes were carried round, and altogether a good sum was realised. It was, however, unfortunate that shortly before 5 o'clock a heavy thunderstorm passed through the district, the rain causing a great many of the visitors to bent a hasty retreat. The various stalls did good busines, and the function was in every way successful.

Back Row-Reading from Loft to Right : W. A Gilder. A. Cooper. P. Hepworth. Dr. Kottmann. W. A. Roof. T. U. Jackson. C. M. Buck (treasurer). Mc-Keown, Charlton. Front Row : F. S. Willis, Dr. O'Reilly (president). J. G. Bull (secretary). THE COMMITTEE.

 

FETE AT PYMBLE.— VIEW OF CRICKET GROUND

1 Maypole. 2. Fancy Dress Cricket. 3. Some Lady Workers. 4. The Ventriloquist . FETE AT PYMBLE.

OPEN AIR FETE AT PYMBLE, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8. (1902, November 12). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 1253. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165385841

This has Tumbledown dick Hill as being close to Pymble:

MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. MANOUVERS BY THE LANCERS IN THE VICINITY OF NEWPORT.

The Sydney and Parramatta squadrons of the New South Wales Lancers were engaged on Saturday and part of yesterday in some interesting fluid operations in the neighbourhood of Rock Lily and Newport. The parade was also the last of the year.

The Sydney squadron, numbering 69, under Captain King, was as supposed to represent the advance party of an enemy which had landed at Bongan Bongan Beach, near the entrance to Broken Bay. The squadron left the city at 8.30 a.m., and bivouacked at 1 p.m. at Narrabeen. The landing party, by arrangement, commenced to make its dispositions at 2 p.m. from the Rock Lily Hotel, and the idea, was that the telegraph lines should be tapped in order to prevent reinforcements of the defending force coming from Hornsby.

The Parramatta, squadron of Lancers was ordered to find out the strength of the enemy that had landed at Bongan Bongan Beach. According to the plan of operations the road via the Spit was held to be untenable, so that the detachment had to proceed via Pymble. The Parramatta men mustered 72, and were under the command of Captain Mackenzie. They left Parramatta at 8a.m. and reached Tumble-down Dick, near Pymble, in time for lunch.  Lieutenant-Colonel James Burns, officer-commanding, accompanied them, and at Pymble Brigadier-General Finn, Major A. P. Luscombe, D.A. Q.M.G., and Lieutenant Macartney, A.D.C., joined the party with a view to witnessing the manouvres.

A start was made at 2 p.m. from Tumbledown Dick to ascertain the whereabouts of the enemy, and very rough country was encountered, but trooper's and horses got over the ground capitally. The enemy's landing party not having time apparently to achieve its object, its officer-commanding threw out a line of outposts extending from the Rock Lily Hotel to a little point near Newport. Shortly alter 3 p.m. the Parramatta squadron got into touch with the outposts about two miles from the hotel, and after some good work on both sides the evening's advance guard, according to the prearranged plan, was driven back to the reserve near the beach.

Owing to this reverse and the weather becoming thick and stormy the landing party was supposed to be unable to re-embark by boats on board of the cruisers, consequently a position was taken up on Bongan Head. In this phase of the operations, however, the Sydney squadron no longer represented the enemy, but joined the Parramatta men. The enemy's position on Bongan Head was represented by eight canvas targets, which had been erected under the supervision of Major M. Hilliard, D.S.O., and Captain P. C. Timothy. Four of these were located about 500 yards from the main road and the other f our about 900 yards distant, but the ranges were unknown to those who subsequently took part in the firing. It was decided that the attack on this position should be made shortly after daybreak on the following day by the entire body of Lancers representing the home force.

The two squadrons a little after 5 p.m. reached Mr. George Brock's Mona Vale estate, where Captain Timothy had arranged with the owner for the whole force to bivouac for the night. The troops were here joined by Colonel H. D. Mackenzie, A.A.G., Captain J.  Purves, and Captain J. S. Brunton, the two latter travelling by motor car. The Lancers band also came down by a coach provided by the officers, who also contributed the commissariat supplies.

The State Commandant addressed the officers and N.C.O's. during the evening, and said that he was well pleased generally with the tactics, intelligence, and conduct of the troops. The men had shown their efficiency as skilled horsemen in very rough country, and he complimented them on their mobility. The outpost work was creditably performed, but at times rather humid. After tea a camp-fire concert was held, in which the band figured conspicuously, and Mr. Brock' rendered valuable assistance. A boxing bout between two amateur champions, Troopers Parbury and R. Baker, proved exciting, as were also some smart singlestick tourneys.

At daybreak yesterday the reveille sounded, and the Lancers at 5.45 a.m. were on the way to attack the enemy's position, indicated by the canvas targets on Bongan Head, forty rounds of ball cartridge were fired per man in the attack, which was at unknown distances. The shooting was good. One target had about 200 hits on it. The weakness of the attack, according to Brigadier-General Finn, lay in the fact that the men were too prone to expose themselves and rush forward in large numbers instead of in twos and threes. These were defects apparent in all sham fights, however, and only corrected by a taste of the " Real thing."

The troops returned to camp at 8.16. After morning "stables " a bathing parade was held, in which nearly every Lancer participated on his horse. Mr. Brock was thanked for his kindness in quartering the forces, and route march was then taken via the Spit for the Sydney Squadron and via Pymble for the Parramatta men. - The Sydney detachment reached the city in the afternoon. MILITARY INTELLIGENCE. (1902, December 15). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14521240

Pymble station circa 1908 The road going along the hill is Grandview.

Lane Cove Road, Turramurra 1908, from album Glass plate negatives of North Shore, Sydney Harbour and general subjects, courtesy State Records of NSW - Also Visit:  Roads To Pittwater: The Pittwater Road  

Another foray:

MILITARY. LANCERS' STAFF RIDE. 

On Monday last the Sydney Squadron of Lancers returned from a three days' staff ride in the vicinity of Pittwater. The work was undertaken on a tactical scheme connected with the landing of an enemy, the whole being under the command and supervision of Lieutenant M'Mahon. Organised as a complete regiment, the squadron left Sydney about 9 a.m. on Saturday, on a rapid march on Bay View, two squadrons travelling via Gordon and Tumbledown Dick Mountain, and two via Manly and Narrabeen, the advanced parties, by means of signalling communication, coming simultaneously into touch with each other in the scrub behind Rocklily. All ranks had duties of a higher nature than their existing rank, particular attention being paid to the issue of written orders, the forwarding of reports, and sketches In the field. Tents were not taken, the intention being to camp in the open, but owing to the wet weather, the men were billeted in one of Mr. Brock, of Mona Vale's, buildings, the 90 horses being picketed in the rear. MILITARY. (1906, October 4). The Sydney Morning Herald(NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14828169

And a description of the road during those years:

The Old Gordon-Rocklily Road

The old road to Gordon from Mona Vale is at present in a very bad condition. About twenty years ago it was a fairly good road, but now trees grow in the middle of it. Cart-wheels sometimes sink to the axle. This was a proper Government roadway. It was made by the Government not much over twenty years ago, and it is said that It partly owed its origin to ideas of military strategy. The residents in the vicinity are about to get up a big petition to have it put in good order again. They say it is impossible to drive a vehicle upon it. For five or six miles from Gordon many orchards are seen. The whole distance from Gordon to Mona Vale or Rock Lily is 16 miles. There is an opening here for a line of coaches—or at any rate there will be when settle meat has increased. The road could be easily improved, especially from Station Hill. At Folly Rock 2 1/2 miles from Rock Lily the road is very bad. The Old Gordon- Rocklily-road. (1906, July 21). The Mosman Mail (NSW : 1898 - 1906), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article247014780

Photo: sections from 1905 Parish of Narrabeen Map showing Tumbledown Hill end of Lane Cove Road and the Village of Turimetta (Mona Vale - Rocklily) end

Photo: sections from 1905 Parish Map of Narrabeen showing railway dotted line - that was rejected - and 'The Sugarloaf - this section at Terrey Hills part of map also shows 'James Terrey & Philip Spies' owning section of 640 acres previously held by Obadiah Terrey - Below map was Proclaimed April 22nd 1886:

In 1904 the Lane Cove Road (Pacific Highway) to Telegraph road section in St Ives was still called Stoney Creek (MV) Rd, north of Telegraph Rd was still called Pittwater Road. Lane Cove Rd to Woodlands Ave (then Plum St) was in Gordon, Woodlands to Telegraph was Pymble, north of Telegraph was St Ives. The other end, at 'Rock Lily', Taramatta and today's Mona Vale was called the 'Gordon Road'.

With the advent of motor vehicles becoming available in 1904 and 1905 the days of people putting up with dirt tracks were going to come to an end. As more and more people could afford a vehicle, and the advent of motoring bodies such as the N.R.M.A. advocating for better roads where they were in place and the construction of those where they were not, and when this fitted in with 'opening up new areas for residential purposes', the 'road to Lane Cove' was getting closer to actually being that rather than an old bullock track.

A LITTLE KNOWN BEAUTY SPOT. 
BY FRANK WALKER.

A little known stretch of country is that lying between the upper portion of the Milson's Point railway line and the district of Rocklily, Newport, Bayview, etc. The track that gives access from Gordon to Rocklily, passing through the rustic village of St. Ives, is known as the Pittwater-road, and has been in existence for some years, in a more or less neglected condition. Now, however, the authorities are bestirring themselves, and though in places there are stretches of deep sand to negotiate, and in others abrupt and dangerous descents, the major portion of the road is suitable for light traffic, and as the surface is further improved, this road will become more and more popular with tourists. There are views from different portions of the route, which for beauty and extensiveness even excel the Blue Mountains. The road passes through great forests, whose delicious coolness, even on the hottest day, is something: to look back upon with delight, whilst from the summits, of the more elevated plateaus the eye takes in an extent of country which to the west presents a succession of rolling hills and isolated mountain peaks as far as the eye can reach, and lo the east, the smiling landscape is bordered by the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, the gleam of yellow seabeaches, with their silvery line of surf, standing out pure and white against the background of blue. Already the wild flowers art: breaking forth into bloom. The lovely epacris, or native heath, abounds in this region, and in the proper season must fill this well favoured locality with a blaze of glory. The handsome grevillia, or spider plant, with its deep red and silver-grey blossoms, may be found everywhere, and late though the season was when the writer visited this district, myriads of Christmas bells were still in bloom, and the numerous Dilwynnia family, with their variegated flowers of red and yellow, formed oases of colour amongst the grass.

About midway between Gordon and Rocklily the road winds up the side of a high mountain, locally known as 'Tumbledown Dick,' the views from every bend, being superb. Here would be the place for a fine, up-to-date residential hotel, which would be convenient to the city, would be surrounded by charming scenery, and whose inmates would derive the benefit to be obtained from the pure mountain air, without undergoing the preliminary toil and fatigue of a long railway journey. A few hundred pounds spent on the road would, enable a swift motor-car service to be initiated between this locality and Manly, Narrabeen, or Rocklily, and irrespective of the future, when, without doubt, accommodation houses will be built along this route, the whole extent of the road from Gordon to its terminus at Rocklily or Narrabeen would make an ideal tourist route, and amply justify the money spent in making the road fit for traffic. As to the name of this mountain, 'Tumble-down Dick,' it is high time that such nomenclature of beauty spots should be done away with, and as a suggestion the writer would offer the name of 'Mount Cook,' or 'Cook's Plateau,' as a tribute to the great navigator, whose eyes no doubt rested upon this elevated spot in his memorable passage up the coast in the year 1770. The whole of this region to the west is practically unexplored, a greater part of it being bounded by the area known as the Kuring-gai Chase, and it only awaits development, in the shape of good roads, to make of it a desirable place, where the city merchant could establish his country home, and though almost in touch with the metropolis find himself surrounded by all that is health-giving and enchanting in Nature. A LITTLE KNOWN BEAUTY SPOT. (1909, May 19). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article164292811 

Photo: Stoney Creek Road near Gordon, 19 May 1906 – photo by Frank Walker. RAHS states; Unidentified man with bicycle on Stoney Creek Road, near Gordon. Possibly Frank Walker's cycling companion Richard Rowell. From negative in Mitchell Library Frank Walker Collection ON 150, Item 161 Visit: The New Cycle Path - Manly to Pittwater (1901) in Motor Car Tours To And In Pittwater Show Us The Way This Place Once Was

As seen in Roads To Pittwater: The Pittwater Road, in 1906 the "Local Government Act 1906 No 56" and "Local Government Extension Act, 1906 No 40" the responsibility for roads was devolved to local government under the new Local Government Act, which came into operation on 1 January 1907. The Act also increased the number of local government authorities by compulsorily incorporating many rural areas as shires. However, the Public Works Department remained the main construction authority. On 30 June 1906, the Public Works Department cared for 48,311 miles (77,749 km) of roads. Roads Trusts cared for 195 miles (313.8 km). A total of 1,338 miles (2.153.3 km) was controlled by local government with government subsidies. An additional 8,300 miles (13,357.6 km) of municipal roads received no subsidy.

This meant the newly formed Warringah Shire Council became responsible for the Mona Vale and Ingleside end of what we today call 'Mona Vale Road' although then, and for a while longer, it would remain in name as the 'Gordon Road' simply because it was still the road to Gordon.

Several examples of Warringah Shire Council seeking tenders for the work to improve and even build this road from the Mona Vale end are throughout that council's records:

13th December 1907; it was decided to call for fresh tenders for the clearing of Gordon road from west end of Mona Vale Cemetery to Larkins. ('Larkins' was the Waratah Farm, near and comprising the former Ingleside Powder Works)

WARRINGAH. At a meeting of the Warringah Shire Council the clerk presented a statement showing a credit balance of £538 He stated that although the ordinances and regulations were somewhat intricate, they proved it valuable assistance to him in his work Contracts were lot for the supply of 300 yards of metal, and for the clearing and forming of part of Gordon road, to Messrs. Oliver and Whitney respectively. WARRINGAH. (1907, July 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article14834033

5th June 1908; C. Harrington asking for work on the Gordon Road Mona Vale

IN THE SHIRES. —  WARRINGAH

At the last meeting of the Warringah Council, C.» M'Intosh moved:— "That application be made to the Minister for Lands to re-name Manly and Curl Curl Lagoons, as their present names are not in keeping with their positions.:' The mover Adopted a suggestion that the motion stand overs to allow, him to suggest suitable names. . . Cr. M'lntosh moved and Cr. Ralston seconded— "That this council take the necessary steps under section 120, to secure by resumption or appropriation, about three chains of land lying between the Pittwater-road and Nicolson-street. The resumed area to be for a road of access for quarry and other purposes." It was decided to first ask the landowners in the benefited area to contribute to the cost of the undertaking. Cr. M'lntosh moved, and Cr. Powell seconded— (a) "That the engineer prepare an estimate of the cost of forming and ballasting 30 chains ot the Fish-road, Dee-why." (b) "As the above road gives direct access to large areas of Crown lands, which will shortly be made available by auction sale, application be made to the Governor to declare the making of the above road a national work, as. provided for in section 137, L.G. Act, and to pay to the council such proportion of the cost of the work as may be agreed upon between the Minister and the council. Carried unanimously. As the successful tenderer for the Gordon-road work (Mr. Hill) declined to take up the contracts, they were given to the next Jowett— Devlin and Erickson. £100/10/; and G. Riddle, £108/15/. The consideration of tenders for metal for the Beacon-hill was allowed to stand over until the next meeting. IN THE SHIRES. (1909, September 6). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article238323050

Gordon Rd, Lindfield ca.1910. Taken on Gordon Road (now known as the Pacific Highway) looking North with Strickland Avenue on the right. Courtesy State Records of NSW

March 1911 Warringah Shire Council Records show improvements had ben made, although there was still criticism on how good these were:

WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL: the president's minute.

At the last meeting of the Warrningah Shire Council, the president (Cr. Quirk) submitted his annual minute. The finances of the shire were in a very sound condition, the total income amounting to £8391,. as against £5552 for the previous year. As the outlook was most promising, the current year would probably give a corresponding increase. Surf bathing was one of the shire a principal assets, and the pastime had received every attention from the council, accommodation being established at Newport and Narrabeen during the year. Towards the expenditure on the new enclosures the Government department had contributed £ for £, while the local residents subscribed one-third of the amount. 

The roads throughout the shire had been improved considerably. The principal amount spent was on Gordon-road, viz., £500. That thoroughfare was being made trafficable for the purpose of providing a new and direct route to the seaside for northern suburbs residents. 

An excellent business transaction resulted in the handing over of the whole of the Newport beach frontage— about six acres— to the shire. The transfer was effected through the payment of £150 by the Lands Department. 

The extension of the tram to Brookvale was most satisfactory, and made all tlie more pleasing by reason of the Minister's promise for an ultimate extension to Narrabeen. During the year 130 new dwellings had been erected within the area. Turimetta Reserve had been improved, and a splendid site secured for the Brookvale Park. Queenscliff and Freshwater had been lighted for the first time, the water supply of those places being also carried out by means of mains from Manly. The health of the shire was good, not one case of infectious disease having occurred during the year. Cr. Quirk hoped for the continued success of the council under the new presidency of Cr. Ralston. WARRINGAH SHIRE COUNCIL (1911, March 1). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article238718474

Mr. Joe Pearson, who travelled, over the road from Rocklily to St. Ives a few days ago, says that the road is being Improved, but It will be some time before It Is in a good condition. At any time the best way to travel would be from St. Ives to Rocklily as the grades Ii places are some-what severe, there being a rise up Foley’s Hill of 600ft. In three miles, when there is a fall of about 100ft in the next mile, after which the ascent of 'Tumbledown Dick' Is made, 250ft being the rise In a little over one mile. As several sandy patches are met on the Journey, they make the ascent rather severe, but by going the way recommended they should not be so troublesome. It Is a pity that greater efforts are not made to make the road, better, as some of the views from various parts are charming. In fact there are not many better around Sydney. CYCLING AND MOTORING. (1911, June 8). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article114138913 

MONA VALE DRAINAGE.

A petition, signed by sixty residents, was presented to the Warringah Shire Council at its last meeting. The object was to draw attention to the drainage of Mona Vale. The Black Swamp is nothing more than a pool of stagnant water the greater part of the year, and when not under water It considered a menace to health by reason of the amount of decaying vegetable matter washed Into it during every storm. It was suggested that a drain be made from Warriewood and Newport roads to the ocean, via Bayview. If this were done a considerable portion of good residential and agricultural ground would be opened up. The matter is to have consideration. MONA VALE DRAINAGE. (1913, June 18).Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article113364399 

By 1919-1920 the entire length from Lane Cove Rd (Pacific Hwy) is now called Pittwater Road. In 1914 a 'truck' bus operated from Pymble station in a Model T Ford and quickly became a real 'bus service. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences has a great webpage on World War One veteran, James (Jim) Maunder of "Braeside" Cowan Road, St Ives and Arthur Hellewell Gillott, who ran buses along this road to Dee Why Beach, eventually.

There are frequent 'bus services to and from Gordon, Pymble, Warrawee and St. Ives. ...IN THE HEART of a NORTHERN PARADISE (1924, November 9). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 24. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128150211

The growth in automobile users gives us descriptions of the roads to Pittwater they could now take, particularly this still relatively alike a 'bush track' version of Mona Vale Road:

PLEASANT TOURS AWHEEL.

...

ACROSS THE HARBOUR.

With a well-oiled car, equipped with a spare tyre, a supply of fuel and oil, and with good lamps - a motorist should never leave his garage without lamps - a run of 10 miles may be undertaken without trepidation. If the motorist lives in the city, or on the southern side of the harbour, he must ferry his car across to Milson's Point and commence the steady climb up past St. Leonards railway station, along the Lane Cove-road to Chatswood, and through the pleasant uplands towards Gordon, now thickly dotted with the picturesque houses of the dwellers on the

North Shore line.

There is a Green Gate Inn at Gordon, and a little beyond a road to the right is found leading through St. Ives to Pittwater. The motorist is now heading for the coast, but is still climbing up and breathing the pure air of the mountains. The road is fair - a little sandy in places, perhaps, but of no account to the car, although the cyclist is compelled to dismount only to be lured off the track a moment later by the wealth of wild flowers growing in the bush. Once past the notorious "Tumble Down Dick"' there are glimpses of the sea, with the horizon, it would seem, even higher than the road.

BUSHRANGERS' HILL.

The by-roads leading to Narrabeen are not taken as the view from Bushranger's Hill must be seen, and to reach this viewpoint it is necessary to pass through Rocklily, where the main coast road to Broken Bay is joined. Bay View from where Pittwater may be seen at its best must certainly be visited as well, and if time permits, Church Point also, which is the terminus of the road through Rocklily, so a return must be made to the main road, and the turn to Newport taken.

But it is not wise to go beyond Newport in this direction. The road leads on to Barrenjoey, the south head of Broken Bay, but although rivalling the Old South Head-road from Sydney in scenic splendour, it is a wretchedly rough trail, and not fitted for the wheels of motor cars. A turn should there-fore, be made back to the Newport turn-off, where a track will be found on the right, leading away to the far-famed Bushranger's Hill with both land and sea scapes, unequalled on these coasts.

LIKE THE FJORDS OF NORWAY.

To Manly from Newport the way lies past Rocklily again, and follows the sea coast, or as near to it as it is possible to go, past the flourishing little township of Narrabeen, with its surfing beaches, and wellstocked lake - a Mecca for fishermen. Narrabeen has a 

motor 'bus service, too, and a tentacle of the Manly tramways has now pushed its way to the "city limits," which means, of course, that wild flowers are only to be gathered farther afield - away by the old powder works or on the wooded slopes of Sheep Station Hill. The tramway has not spoiled the run alongside the Deewhy Lagoon all the way through Manly to the Spit ; but if the dust is troublesome the road via Condamine-street to the Spit, which will be found on the right just eight miles from Rocklily, may be taken, which is a shorter route home and leaves out Manly.

It is only 8½ miles from Manly to Milson's Point via the Spit, so perhaps if it is not too late and the breakers are inviting, a halt may be called while the driver looks to the mechanism of his car ; or if the moon per-chance should rise early it would repay the party to stay in the "village" for tea, and cross the Middle Harbour hills by moonlight, for those who have travelled far afield say that the scenes remind them of the fjords of Norway.

PLEASANT TOURS AWHEEL. (1913, September 30). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15454171

Frenchs Forest Soldier Settlement: group in car. Motor with Dr Arthur, Mr P and 2 returned soldiers and lady, circa 1916 - 1918. Courtesy State Records of NSW. Visit: Roads To Pittwater: The Wakehurst Parkway Along Old Oxford Falls Track (Roseville Bridge and Soldier's Settlement Scheme section)

PLEASANT TOURS

ANOTHER AFTERNOON RUN OF 50 MILES.

A very pleasant afternoon's run is that from North Sydney to St. Leonards, -Chatswood, Lindfield, Gordon,' St. Ives, French's Forest, Rocklily, Bayview, Newport, back to Manly, via Narrabeen, thence via the Spit and Mosman to North Sydney, a distance of 50 miles. ' The horse ferry has to be taken to Milson's Point, and thence the route is to follow' the tram line, turning left at the North Sydney post-office j on to the Lane Cove-road, and on to St. Leonards, Chatswood, Roseville, Lindfield, Killara, to Gordon. The tourist must turn right, here, under the railway line, and keep to the right on through St. Ives. From here across to Rocklily is a most enjoyable run through the bush. A few sandy stretches are encountered, but the road will not be objected to by the average motorist. At the seven-miles post — measurements are taken from Narrabeen— the road to French's Forest is met on the right, but the tourist goes straight on past Tumble-down Dick, from which a fine view of Narrabeen Lakes in the distance is obtained. A little further on another turn-off on the right, which leads to Narrabeen, is passed, and in another three miles the tourist comes out at Rocklily, where the turn to the left is taken. 

Still keeping to the left, Bayview, and Church Point — a pretty and popular spot— is reached, after a three miles' run from Rocklily. One of the finest views to be had of Pittwater is obtained at Bayview. Returning to the main road, the tourist turns left for Newport, passing the turn-off for Barrenjoey on the right en route. A track here leads to Bushranger's Hill, from which a magnificent view is to be had. The return journey should fa's made back to Rocklily, continuing straight on through Narrabeen. Ten miles from Newport, there is a road off the right which leads to the Spit, via Condamine-street. From the Spit to Milson's Point is plain sailing. This will be found to be one of the best afternoon runs to be had close to the city, and at this time of the year it is a short tour that appeals most to motorists. 

PLEASANT TOURS (1916, July 16). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121346878 

 Above and Below: Panorama of Mona Vale, New South Wales, ca. 1930 [picture] / EB Studios National Library of Australia PIC P865/125 circa between 1917 and 1946] and sections from made larger to show detail.

The road to Bay View from Mona Vale Village Park junction - circa 1917

Motor Fatality

A young woman named Oliver was thrown out of a motor car on Mona Vale road yesterday, and was killed. Motor Fatality (1918, March 25). The Gundagai Independent and Pastoral, Agricultural and Mining Advocate (NSW : 1898 - 1928), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article121755649 

LORRY CAPSIZES

TWO MEN INJURED

When a motor lorry capsized in Pittwater Road, Mona Vale, on Saturday afternoon, the driver, Herbert Walker, and Jack Bass were injured. Walker's hand was badly hurt, and Bass sustained severe shock. The other occupants of the lorry escaped injury. Walker and Bass were taken to the Manly Cottage Hospital. LORRY CAPSIZES (1923, December 31).The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article246001938 

MONA VALE WATER SERVICE

Local Rate Required

The extension of the water service to Mona Vale will involve the necessity for a local rate. The roads to be served are: Pittwater-road, Bay-view-road, Newport-road, Vineyard-street, Bungan-street, Mona-street. Darley-street, and By-the-Sea-road. The total ratable frontage will be 42,408ft. This at 80s per foot, an average struck on values, as assessed for this year, has (says the shire clerk in a report to the Warringah Council) a total unimproved value of £63,612. The rate necessary to be levied to make up the estimated annual deficiency of £317 14s 9d is 1 l-5d in the £. . : A petition has been forwarded to the Water Board asking for the inclusion of Warriewood-road in the reticulation scheme.

MONA VALE WATER SERVICE (1923, September 18). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 10 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222681170 

In 1924 two local approaches, The Spit Bridge, and the Roseville Bridge, were opened, improving access and lifting local aspirations:

MONA VALE GETS A MOVE ON

Residents Insist on Good Roads and Other Improvements — Progress Association formed

TOURISTS' PARADISE.

Residents of the district extending from Green Hills to Church Point met at the Mona Vale Town Hall last night formed a Progress Association to co-operate with the Warringah Shire Council in getting necessary work done in their picturesque area. There was a splendid roll-up of enthusiasts from all parts of the district. Some came in their motor cars, others walked through the bush for miles, guided by the light of their lanterns. 

They elected their officers, adopted their rules, and outlined their plan of campaign. Mr. H. Lodge was appointed president, Mr. W. W. Hill vice-president, Mr. Muddle secretary, and Mr. Austin, treasurer. The president pointed out that the association would confine its activities to the area extending from Green Hills to Church Point, which had not received the attention at the hands of the council that it deserved. 

REFORM PLAN. Mr. Williams (Bay View) said that the Progress Association would not rest content until: — 

(1) The Warringah Shire Council makes a more equitable expenditure in A riding in proportion to the rates paid by the residents of that area. A riding extends from Narrabeen to Barrenjoey, and to Cowan on the western side.) 

(2) First-class roads are constructed from Manly to Pittwater— the gateway from Sydney to the beautiful Kuringai Chase. 

(3) The approaches to the surfing beaches are improved. 

(4) The wharves and baths at Bay View are made safe. (At present the stringers on the wharves are rusty, and the wire-netting In the baths Is in a most dilapidated condition— sharks ran easily get through the huge holes at high tide.) 

(5) The steps are made safe from the wharves to the boats at Bay View. (At present one has to be a gymnast to be able to Jump from the boats to the first step on the wharf. Four steps are missing, and the rest are rotting.) 

(6) The wharf at Church Point is made safe for the public. (It, like the wharf at Bay View, is rotting away.)

(7) The Black swamp at Mona Vale is drained and utilised either as a public park or a golf course. 

A BEAUTIFUL AREA. 

When these reforms are executed the district will be the pride of all Australians, blessed by Nature with scenic beauty beyond compare in the world; with glorious surfing beaches and mile after mile of beautiful bays, set like Jewels in sylvan surroundings, reflecting in their still depths the graceful trees that adorn them — bays for boating, fishing, and swimming, it is little wonder that the Pittwater district, which the newly-formed Progress Association is out to improve, is so popular with tourists. 

The district has commercial possibilities also, in its soil almost anything can be grown. Mr. Fredericks, of Mona Vale, is cultivating successfully pineapples, bananas, mangoes, citrus fruits, and sugar cane. And only 18 miles from Sydney! 

At present the district is renowned as a tourist resort, but with the advent of the Spit Bridge, rendering it, with good roads, easily accessible to the city, it will probably develop into one of the most popular residential areas on the outskirts of Sydney. The Mona Vale Progress Association is determined that this wonderful district shall come into its own. MONA VALE GETS A MOVE ON (1924, July 2). The Labor Daily (Sydney, NSW : 1924 - 1938), p. 5. Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236544961 

The Turning Point 

AND now a break — for who needs any description of the route between Collaroy and Mona Vale, which in earlier days was frequently called after the old Rock Lily Hotel, whose career as a hostelry is over? 

Mona Vale for us spells another deviation, and we branch to our left just before we come to the angle of lthe recreation reserve, where the roads fork to Bayview and Barrenjoey respectively. Our path now is one that has been traversed by many lovers of the wheel, and it will take us in the course of a rather rough and steep journey to the new Gordon road, which always forms a welcome 'glide off' to the day's run. 

A little bit of easy going, and then we are faced by the notorious Tumble Down Dick, which is the pass to the uplands. A few days ago we met a man whom we thought to be above suspicion, and he told us that on one occasion he had pushed a motor-bicycle the whole way up this hill; but those who know this place will probably excuse our cynicism. 

Through the forest we speed as fast as ruts, potholes, and steep pinches will allow, until at last, we come to a spot where a road runs in from the left. This is the point we should have reached if we had followed the left-hand 'turning at the loquat trees. However that is by the way, and we tear along at our best pace towards St. Ives, for the shadows are lengthening and we still have some attractive ground to cover. Passing through the village, we near an old church on the left, and here we must halt for a few moments to point the way to another. by-path. 

A Disused Path and a Gully 

THE church stands at the angle of two roads, the one which we have been following, and another which serves a number of orchards and farmlets in the direction of the head of Cowan Creek. At one time this road was trafficable as far as Cowan Creek, but that is not the case to-day. Nevertheless, the tourist with an hour up his sleeve can pass the time very pleasurably by exploring this old road. After the main line, of settlements has been left, behind, the road for some hundreds of yards becomes wide and gravelly, with a fair sprinkling of bad ruts. Then it narrows again, and an odd-looking shack will be observed on the near side, of the track. By careful driving one can get some distance beyond this, as far as a cultivated clearing in which stands a tiny cottage. Here one should leave the car and strike off obliquely to the left down a barely perceptible track. Keep along the upper ridge of the hillside until the valley shows signs of deepening and then cut down towards the bottom of the gully. As a check on the direction taken, may mention that an old water-filled ... claypit will he passed before one heads down into the deeper part, of the valley. An easy walk of a few minutes duration will bring you to a pretty little cascade, and it is a ...

But time presses, and once again we are back at the church. To ... the new Gordon road, which we pick up midway between Pymble and Gordon, we have but to keep on our course. Very soon we come to the crest of a hill, down which journey, and so pass under a railway bridge and come out on to the new road.

The northern country between Turramurra and Dural still remains untouched hut we must' reserve this for another day, content will) having' proved to our own satisfaction that he who runs may find beauties innumerable in that fine tract of country which might well be styled our Northern Suburban Playground. Motoring (1925, March 18). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 35. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article159721719

A PICTURESQUE RUN.

A very picturesque run for a day's outing for motorists over roads which for the most part are from fair to good Is out through the northern suburbs and along the const to New-port and Barrenjoey, returning via the aptly named Tumbledown Dick Hill to Gordon, and thence over De Burgh's Bridge to Ryde to Sydney.

This trip was made during the week in a light car, the course being from Sydney to Milson's Point, the Spit Bridge, Condamine-street (between Balgowlah and Manly), Brook-vale, and Mona Vale to Newport. Then, Instead of going on to Barrenjoey the car returned to Church Point and back to Rocklily, where the Gordon-road was taken through the hilly forest country. Leaving Fort Macquarie at about 10.45 a.m., the road was excellent from Milson's Point to Deewhy. Condamine-street has been tarred, making a line highway of It, and the 11 miles Journey to Collaroy was completed without any notable Incident. The tarred road, except for patches, ends at Narrabeen, and a slower pace was found advisable on some of the tough spots, but nevertheless the going was good. Near Rocklily the party lunched on the side of the road, and afterwards proceeded quietly as far as Newport Beach. Instead of pushing on to Barrenjoey, the car returned to Rocklily through Mona Vale, and the turn towards Bayview and Church Point taken. 

A pretty run of three miles along the shores of Pittwater was made, and on returning to Rocklily the Gordon-road, which turns up to the right through the forest and hills, was followed. Almost Immediately a steep climb had to be negotiated up Foley's Hill, from the top of which there is a magnificent view of Narrabeen Lake and Long Reef Beach. Beyond this point the forest has been interfered with but little, and many picturesque scenes are presented. About 2 ¾ miles from the turn-off at Rocklily there is a turn to the left, which leads down to Narrabeen, past the Powder Works, and soon afterwards the Sugarloaf Hill Is climbed, followed a couple of miles later by Tumbledown Dick Hill-all three of these hills being long, steep, and having hairpin bends, which necessitate caution on the part of the driver. 

Nearing St. Ives a stop was made to visit Mclntosh's lookout over the great gullies of the forest, and then the run was continued to the Gordon-road, via the Stony Creek-road. Crossing the Gordon-road at the Gas Company's office a long descent of about  2 ¼ miles was made over tarred road with some turns, and then the surface degenerated, being very rough in places, until the Upper Lane Cove River was crossed by De Burgh's Bridge. This beautiful gorge itself is worth a visit any time. Crossing the bridge after a short halt the road was still Inferior for a mile or two. In one place a deviation having to be followed through the bush to avoid great watercourses, and then more tarred road was found leading into Ryde. Thence the tramline was followed through Gladesville over the bridge across the Parramatta River and into Drummoyne, and via Lyons-road to Fivedock, the Parramatta-road, and Ashfield. 

Altogether it was a drive of about 60 miles through a fine variety of scenery, and constituted a pleasant day's outing.

CAUTIOUS DRIVING.

No road user to-day can fail to be Impressed by the disregard for simple precautions In the interests of safety shown by numbers of drivers or riders of every type of vehicle, every driver can relate Instances, many, in number, of hair-breadth escapes from more or less serious accident after almas! every drive of a few miles, caused by the Ignorant or inconsiderate tactics of others, who take every sort of risk to pass or get In front of the quietly-driven vehicle. The necessity for every road-user realising that he should be cautious in all circumstances, including patience in accepting the tedious pace of a stream of traffic In billy city or suburban streets, In emerging from or turning into side streets, in driving within the range of safety provided by the lamps he Is using at night, in refraining from the temptation to pass other vehicles on the wrong side, cutting sharply in front of other traffic In order to spine a position, without regard for the safety of the occupants of the vehicle overtaken, and In a multitude of other ways showing a dis-regard for safety, grows more pressing every day.

N.R.M.A. MEMBERSHIP.

During the week ended March 3 217 new members joined the National Roads and Motorists' Association, including 29 from New-castle There were 12 lady motorists among the new members. The association now has a total of 13,781 members, of whom 1689 have joined since January 1.

The council of the National Roads and Motorists' Association has granted the secretary (Mr. H. I. Johnson) six months' leave of absence to enable him to visit England, Europe, and America. Mr. Johnson, to whose energy and capacity the success of the N.R.M.A. is largely due, has been commissioned to investigate a number of important matters having relation to motor traffic, and he will report on these with a view to having the best and most up-to-date methods adopted, to the advantage of members of the association and members of the public generally. During Mr. Johnson's absence Mr. H. E. Richards will act as secretary of the N.R.M.A.

FORD IN AUSTRALIA CLUB.

The Ford In Australia Club has arranged a hill climb at Artillery Hill, National Park, on Saturday, March 13, at 2.30 p.m. The test will be conducted in three sections, one being for standard cars, one for non-standard cars, and a special class for speed cars. MOTORING. (1926, March 6). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16272585 

The N.R.M.A. was formed as the National Roads Association in 1920 and became the NRMA in 1923. They were advocates for safe driving from the outset and as part of that, safer roads through better roads. When you take into account the rapid embrace of the motor vehicle as an independent means of transport, and the reach of those who could afford automobiles, clearly mostly male at the outset and most likely meeting 'those with influence' through work, or being those with influence themselves, the stance taken by such an organisation, still maintained today, saved lives then as it does today.

Taken alongside the fact that women could not vote in New South Wales until 1902, nor stand for a seat until 1918, with the first woman elected to the Legislative Assembly (and the second to any Parliament in Australia) being Millicent Preston-Stanley, who held the seat of Eastern Suburbs for the Nationalist Party 1925-1927, cars were mainly for boys and girls were still, mostly, expected to be 'seen and unheard'. 

Some statistics:

GROWTH SINCE FEDERATION
Sydney. Saturday.
When Australia federated in 1901 the population was 1.776,000. To-day it is nearly 6,000.000. The Federal Parliament has to date passed 4000 Acts. AUSTRALIA'S POPULATION (1926, January 2). Barrier Miner (Broken Hill, NSW : 1888 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article45921343

POPULATION OF N.S.W,
2.300,000 AT END OF 1925
Sydney, Friday.
Mr. H. A. Smith, Government Statistician, in his annual report, states that at the end of 1925 the population of New South Wales was 2.300.000. The proportion of males to females was 104 to 109. POPULATION OF N.S.W. (1926, October 29). Barrier Miner (Broken Hill, NSW : 1888 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article45952583

Many of these road reports came from the N.R.M.A.:

SYDNEY ROAD CONDITIONS

Sydney to Palm Beach. — Generally very good to the Spit; good with bumpy patches to Brookvale, Narrabeen, Mona Vale, and Newport; fair to rough from Newport to Palm Beach. 

Milson's Point to Hornsby. — Very fair to bumpy to Crow's Nest, from here Willoughby-road may be taken to Chatswood or Lane Cove-road may be followed through St. Leonards ; excellent to Pearce's Corner; new surface between there and Hornsby. 

Hornsby to Berowra.— Mostly, worn and rough metalled surface, the new road towards Hawkesbury River may be taken for several miles, but it is not yet possible to reach Hawkesbury River, except by the. old road (rough and steep for the last mile). 

Galston Gorge to Parramatta. — Bumpy stretches of hard surface to Rogan's Hill, then generally good to Parramatta. 

Bobbin Head to Gordon-road. — Steep climb, with a succession of hairpin bends out of valley, then fair gravel surface through Kuring-gai Chase, rough near the gates; bear right at fork and reach Gordon-road by Turramurra-road (avoiding Bobbin Head-road, which is rough). 

French Forest Roads. — Generally fair, with occasional patches of exposed sandstone; the road from Roseville Bridge to the centres north of Manly is very freely used, and much traffic also passes over Pittwater-road (worn stretches) from Pymble to Mona Vale. Mona Vale may also be reached through French's Forest road from Roseville Bridge and from The Spit Bridge. Pearce's Corner to Parramatta. — Worn and pot-holey for a few miles along Pennant Hills-road, then becoming better, with occasional rough patches. 

Parramatta to Ryde, via Kissing Point-road.— Mostly worn surface ; excellent entering Ryde ; Victoria-road is {inder repair at the Ryde end. Ryde to North Sydney (via the bridges). — Good to Ryde boundary; mostly rough and pot-holey to Northern Suburbs Cemetery and Fuller's Bridge; very fair to good to Chatswood. 

Gladesville to North Sydney (via Fig Tree Bridge and Burn's Bay-road).— Fair in early stages ; then very good concrete surface to the junction with Lane Cove-road. 

Gladesville to Pymble or Chatswood (via Pittwater-road). — Exceedingly rough ; little used by motor traffic. Parramatta to McGrath's Hill. — First half-mile bumpy, then very good. 

McGrath's Hill to Wiseman's Ferry. — New road to beyond Cuttai Creek, but rough for last few miles to Wiseman's Ferry. 

McGrath's Hill to Richmond and Kurrajong Heights. — New road into Windsor, then patchy; very fair up the long hill. Kurrajong Heights to Mt. Victoria. — Very fair through Bilpin to foot of Mt. Tomah; exceedingly rongh over Mt. Tomah and, in parts, for the next few miles to the Mt. Wilson turn-off, then generally very fair to good country road through to Bell and Mt. Victoria. (Traffic over this route is frequently blocked by fallen trees)'.

SYDNEY ROAD CONDITIONS (1927, March 27). Sunday Times (Sydney, NSW : 1895 - 1930), p. 22. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article128517487 

SEA VIEWS

MONA VALE LANDS

Situated on the hill which rises behind Mona Vale Beach Is the Tonkin Estate; which Is to be sold by auction next Saturday by Messrs. Peach Bros. This estate Is within a few yards of the Manly-Pittwater-road, the main traffic artery of the Barrenjoey peninsular, which Is to be reconstructed In concrete. The 47 homesites have frontages to Vineyard-street and the Lane Cove-road. One large allotment has a homestead already built upon it. Handy to surf and 'bus services, the Tonkin Estate also has the advantage of quick access to Pittwater by the direct Bay View-road. Deposit required is £10 per lot. '

SEA VIEWS (1927, November 16). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 23 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222739443 

In August 1928 Main road no 162 was finally declared, but was still not called the Mona Vale Road as yet:

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1927 PROCLAMATION.

(L.S.)

D. R. S. de CHAIR, Governor.

I Sir Dudley Rawson Stratford de Chair, Governor of the State of New South Wales, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in pursuance of the provisions of section 8 of the Main Roads Act, 1924-27, do hereby repeal the Proclamation of the Main Roads numbered and described in Schedule "A" attached hereto, and proclaim these roads as Main Roads in accordance with the numbers and descriptions set out in Schedule "B" attached hereto, together with certain other roads whose recommendation has been concurred in by the Councils of the Municipalities and Shires concerned.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this eighth day of August, 1928.

By His Excellency's Command,

MICHAEL F. BRUXNER. 

GOD SAVE THE KING!

No. 162. From the intersection of Wicks-road and Lucknow -road (Main Road No. 191) at North Ryde, via Wicks-road, Pittwater-road, Lane Cove road, De Burgh's Bridge, Ryde Road, Gordon, Stoney Creek Road, St. Ives and Tumble Down Dick and Lane Cove road, to Pittwater-road (Main Road No. 164) at Rock Lily. 

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1927. (1928, August 17). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3814. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article219952359

N.R.M.A.'S REPORT

A special up-to-the-minute report on the condition of the main southern road, between Sydney and Goulburn, is provided in this week's report by the N.R.M.A. Touring Department, one of whose officers is now engaged in an extensive road-reporting tour through the Southern districts of the State.

The principal motoring roads around Sydney are also treated in the report.

ROADS AROUND SYDNEY

Narrabeen to Palm Beach.— Fair generally to Newport, with some good stretches; fair winding road to Palm Beach, with occasional worn patches. Mona Vale to Church Point.— Splendid tarred surface, but worn and bumpy approaching Church Point.

French's Forest to Mona Vale, by way of Pittwater-road.— Bumpy and worn gravel to Pittwater-road, then fair, becoming rough In parts over Tumbledown Dick and for a mile or so beyond; fair to Mona Vale.

SOUTH ROAD--SYDNEY TO GOULBURN (1928, August 9). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 4 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222171027

STATE OF THE ROADS
FOR WEEK-ENDERS ROADS ROUND SYDNEY WATTAMOLLA AND GARIE
FURTHER improvements in the condition of some of the more popular motoring routes around Sydney and within easy distance of the city are recorded in this week's N.R.M.A road bulletin, which has been prepared for the benefit of motorists contemplating week-end trips.

Conditions around Sydney towards the north and west are described as follows:— Milson's Point to The Spit: Good. The Spit to Brookvale: Good along Sydney-road, concrete stretches, and Condamine-street; good, with bumpy stretches along the tramlines Brookvale. Brookvale to Narrabeen: Bumpy to good, tarred road. Narrabeen to Palm Beach: Fair generally to Newport, with some good stretches; fair, winding road to Palm Beach, with occasional worn patches. Narrabeen to Pittwater-road: Fair gravel surface along Powder Works-road. Manly to Brookvale: Bumpy along the tramlines in Pittwater-road; a preferrable route is by way of North Steyne. Mona Vale to Church Point: Splendid tarred surface, but worn and bumpy approaching Church Point. Milson's Point to Crow's Nest: Good to North Sydney Post Office. Thence by way of Miller and Falcon streets to Crow's Nest good. Lane Cove-road under repair between North Sydney Post Office and Crow's Nest. Crow's Nest to Hornsby: Concrete surface along Lane Cove-road to Boundary-road Concreting both sides of Gordon-road, from Roseville to Pymble, Centre track being used Good thence to Hornsby. Chatswood to Ryde, by way of Fig Tree Bridge: Good, with corrugated stretches along Burns Bay-road. Concrete road to Gladesville Terminus, then under repair to Ryde. Detour over a good road by way at Meriton-street, Morrison-road and Church-street. Chatswood to Ryde, by way of Fuller's Bridge: Mostly good to Fuller's Bridge, then fair to Twin-road; Lane Cove-road under repair, detour along Boyce and Bruce streets, fair. 

PYMBLE TO RYDE 

Pymble to Ryde, by way of De Burgh's Bridge: Good to the bridge. Very good for half a mile. Under repair approaching Lucknow-road and again on the Ryde side of Lane Cove-road to Roseville Bridge. Turn to the right into Boundary-road and immediately after passing under the railway line turn left into Hill-street and shortly after-wards into Bancroft-avenue. The surface is good at first, with rough going down the hill to Roseville Bridge. Crow's Nest to Roseville Bridge: Excellent concrete surface along Willoughby-road to the Junction with Victoria-road, Chatswood. Good tarred surface along Penshurst-street to Boundary-road, where turn left to Archibald road. Here turn right into Addison-avenue over fair surface becoming rough on the hill going down to Roseville Bridge. Roseville Bridge to Brookvale, by way of French's Forest: Bumpy and worn gravel sur-face through French's Forest, improving to fair to Brookvale. French's Forest to Manly: Fair to worn gravel road, followed by good concrete stretches along Sydney-road to Manly. French's Forest to Mona Vale, by way of Pittwater-road: Bumpy and worn gravel to Pittwater-road, then fair, becoming rough in parts of Tumbledown Dick, and for a mile or so beyond; fair to Mona Vale. Pittwater-road lo Commodore Heights on Broken Bay: Mostly rough, bad patches in wet weather.

STATE OF THE ROADS (1928, October 11). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article117462679

FOREST VANDALS

IF members of the N.S.W. Rangers League succeed in making the Wildflowers' Protection Act something more than a mere name they will earn the gratitude of all true Australians.

A ramble from Duffy's Wharf, opposite Bobbin Head, to the Pittwater-road, last Sunday, took me through the heart of Duffy's Forest, where the toot of the motor horn has so far failed to drown the notes of the bush birds. I saw the earliest of the Waratahs bursting Into bloom, and repeatedly had to make short detours to avoid walking knee-deep In luxurious boronia blooms. On sections of the track, where probably no touring motorist has ever been able to penetrate. I witnessed the now unusual sight of last year's Waratah seed-pods dropping their contents on to the fruitful soil. The despoiler or the bush had not placed his desecrating hands upon them, and a new crop will soon be springing up there. As I neared the Pittwater-road, however, I came across, first, a motor lorry loaded with newly-cut timber, and then stacks of cut timber alongside the track. That motor lorry later careered along the Pittwater-road with Its freight of forest victims, and apparently without anyone questioning the driver. . 

A couple of miles down the French's Forest road leading towards Manly, a new notice board attracted attention. It had held a notice printed on cloth relating to the Wildflowers' Protection Act, and specifying the protected flora. Only a narrow strip of the cloth remained on the board. The rest, torn to shreds, lay on the ground below. There are very few wildflowers along the French's Forest roads now, but the bush vandal must tear up something. —A. R. WILKIE

FOREST VANDALS (1929, August 20). Evening News (Sydney, NSW : 1869 - 1931), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article118997107

Through French's Forest and Round to Pittwater

Some of the most delightful motor tours around Sydney are quite close at hand. Of course, for the motorist who can spare a couple of days there are beautiful trips to be made north, south and west, but they are beyond the reach of the average man. He wants somewhere that will allow him to get along at an easy pace, have time to linger by the roadside, admire the view, boil a billy or even, perhaps have a little sleep beneath the shade of a tall gum. One of the prettiest and handiest runs for a Sunday afternoon is that which takes in French's Forest, with all its wealth of flowers, with its occasional glimpses of the sea — and which gives also a taste of the salt air about Narrabeen, Mona Vale and Brookvale. There are picnic places galore — communal camping grounds and secluded spots where one will not be disturbed. The best route to follow is that which starts from the Gordon-road, at Pymble. 

Gordon-road, of course, is reached by following the Lane Cove-road from North Sydney). From Gordon-road, turn to the right and follow the road — clearly marked— which leads under a railway bridge, and takes you to the pretty St. Ives country, with its orchards and little farms. Beyond St. Ives Is Davidson Park, where you can stop for afternoon tea, if you have brought it with you. Without difficulty the road can be followed till it junctions with French's Forest-road, which goes to the right, leading to Roseville Bridge or The Spit. Do not take this route, but continue ahead — Kuring-gai Chase can be seen to the left, the ocean to the right, Tumbledown Dick is the one hill which will probably compel you to get Into low gear, and, by the way. It Is as well to keep a sharp lookout for cars coming down the dangerous curve near the base of the hill. 

Beyond Tumble-down Dick is Foley's Hill, from the foot of which is easy going to Palm Beach-road. Here take a turn to the left, and a little way further on, the road branches, the left fork leading to Bay View and Church Point. Along this road, which skirts the edge of beautiful Pittwater, are numerous spots where you can camp. On the return trip, retrace your tracks till you reach Mona Vale, and then continue along the road to Narrabeen, whence you follow the tram line through Collaroy and Dee Why to Brookvale. At the school at Brookvale take the road which runs off to the right, and you will get some more fine bush scenery In French's Forest, culminating In the beauty of upper Middle Harbor, where you cross Roseville Bridge, and soon find yourself back on the Gordon-road. This is a tour which the N.R.M.A. recommends with confidence. The total distance is about 45 miles. Through French's Forest and Round to Pittwater (1929, November 24). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225153350   

MONA VALE.

New Middle Harbour Bridge.

DR. BRADFIELD'S SCHEME.

In response to a request by the Minister for Works (Mr Davidson), Dr. Bradfield visited Collaroy on Monday evening, and out-lined to the Warringah Transport League an unofficial plan for the construction of a concrete motor road, via the Harbour Bridge, from Milson's Point to Mona Vale.

The scheme, which was evolved by Dr. Bradfield three years ago, when Mr Buttenshaw was Minister for Works, is known as the Kirribilli-Pittwater Super-highway. It traverses North Sydney, Mosman, Manly, and the shire of Warringah. Dr Bradfield claims that it would develop not only districts that are eminently suited for residential and pleasure purposes but also Warringah Shire where it is estimated that, excluding parks and recreation reserves, almost 1000 000 persons could make their homes, with a population density of 20 persons per acre.

The highway as planned, comprises three sections The first which is three miles and a half long, begins at the northern approach to the bridge at Alfred-street It traverses North Svdney and Mosman to Middle Harbour. The second section comprises a high level bridge across Middle Harbour, and the third section a super-highway from the bridge to French's Forest-road thence a bus highway through Manly and Warringah Shire to Mona Vale a distance of 11 miles.

In the Kirribilli-Middle Harbour section provision is made for a highway with an overall width of 100 feet In the centre is a roadway for fast traffic going above or below important cross thoroughfares, and fenced off from side roadways that are designed for ordinary traffic For the first quarter of a mile the roadway would be Independent of existing streets and would cross Warringah Park at the head of Neutral Bay by a street highway, 90 feet above park level It would meet Ben Boyd-road eventually passing under Military-road The estimated cost of this section would be £660 000.

The estimated cost of the Middle Harbour High Level Bridge is £900 000 Preliminary designs have already been made The bridge, of cantilever design with three deck truss spans and an overall length of steelwork of 2003 feet, would be half a mile upstream from the existing Spit Bridge and would connect Beauty Point with Seaforth.

The third section from the bridge to Mona Vale, would cost £510,000, and the total cost is estimated at £2 070,000, which would be reduced by nearly one-half by temporarily utilising the existing Spit Bridge. 

MONA VALE. (1932, February 3). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), , p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16838670 

Mona Vale road during 1934.

DETOUR

OFF MAIN ROAD

FOR VIEWS PALM BEACH RUN

Most Sydney motorists have made the run along the northern beaches to Palm Beach, but few have deviated from the main road to explore the many pleasant places in the Pittwater district

From Sydney to Palm Beach, by way of The Spit, is 27 miles, and the N.R.M.A. suggests this as a morning run, with a picnic lunch at the sheltered beach and an exploring run on the way home. The motorist does not take his departure from Palm Beach by way of the main road. At the northern end of tile beach a sharp turn is made to the left on to a road that winds up the hillside. This road is somewhat narrow, and there are several sharp bends, but the steep climb is well worth while. Looking North At the top of the hill It Is advisable to pause In the Journey for there are several fine views looking north in the direction of Lion Island.

Continuing on over a fair road surface, the tourist comes to another splendid vista of headland and beach — Whale Beach, which is viewed from the heights. Over the southern end of Whale Bench the motorist makes a right-hand turn and descends to the main road, where the turn to the left is taken to Avalon, Just before entering Avalon from the direction of Palm Beach turn to the right on to the road that lends to Clareville. This road should be followed for a mile or so through pretty timber country to where there arc several lino picnic spots, having splendid views of Pittwater. It is not advisable to follow this road, to its dead-end. its it becomes very narrow, and turning is difficult. Back at Avalon either the new or old roads arc taken past the golf links to the top of the rise overlooking the settlement. The view from here Is splendid, but if the road to the right up the hill Is taken, n more extensive panorama may be viewed. Turning again on to the main road In the direction of Sydney, the tourist passes through Newport to Mona Vale, where the turn-off to Bayviww and Church Point is seen on the right. It is about three miles from the main road to Church Point, but the run is well worth taking. 

Running again on the main road towards the city, the motorist sees on the right just more than a mile before reaching Narrabeen, a road running inland to Elanora Heights, it is a climb up to the heights, but the reward is another line panorama of coastline.

If the traveller does not wish to return again to the main road, the Elanora Heights road may be followed inland to Stoney Creek or Pittwater-road, which is traversed up Tumbledown Dick, past St. Ives show-ground to Pacific Highway. This by no means exhausts the long list of by-ways off the main Palm Beach road, says the N.R.M.A. but merely outlines a few of the worth-while deviations from the well-known route.

DETOUR (1934, September 1). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 8 (FOOTBALL RESULTS). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230318925

MEMORIAL AVENUE.

Across Kuring-gai Municipality.

On Saturday afternoon the first section of an avenue of trees, which will be five miles long, was planted In Telegraph-road, Pymble It was intended as a memento of the visit of the Duke of Gloucester to Sydney, and was done In response to the request of the citizens' organising committee which had asked councils to mark the occasion by tree-planting in their areas. The section planted was a quarter of a mile long, and the completed avenue would extend from east of St Ives, along Pittwater-road, Telegraph-road, and Ryde-road to De Burgh bridge.

Alderman Cresswell O'Reilly, who presided said the scheme was an illustration of what could be accomplished by co-operation between citizens and the council for the beautification of a locality In this connection he acknowledged the work of Mr C R Barton and the officials of the Australian Forest League. Trees were planted by Sir Samuel Wälder (chairman of the organising committee) Sir Thomas Bavin Alderman Selby (Mayor of Kuring-gai), Mr S Tout (Forestry Commission), and representatives of the Australian Forest League Tree Lovers' League, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and local bodies The red bottle brush was the tree chosen for the occasion.

Sir Samuel Waldor said the committee's request to local government bodies to plant trees as mementoes of the Duke's visit had met with a remarkable response Favourable replies had been received from 134 councils, and only six had refused.

MEMORIAL AVENUE. (1934, November 19). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17113598

Pittwater Rd. M.R. 162 [Main Road]. Shire of Ku-ring-gai. Deviation at First Rocks (St.Ives)during construction - see old road at side. November 19th, 1934

BEACON HILL

New Road Construction

Motorists who journey to Sydney Urban northern beaches by way of Warringah-road, from Roseville through French's Forest, will soon be able to avoid the steep climb and descent, of Beacon Hill, near Brookvale, advises the N.R.M.A. Good progress is being made with construction of a road from the top of Beacon Hill down to Pittwater-road near its junction with Harbord road. The new thoroughfare, which follows in some parts the line of ... road, is an easy grade and from it some splendid panoramic views are obtained. As well as avoiding the steep hill, the route will, shorten the journey to 'places north of Brookvale.

BEACON HILL (1935, March 9). The Maitland Daily Mercury (NSW : 1894 - 1939), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article126029583

The photograph shows the new road to the coast from Beacon Hill, above Dee Why. Beacon Hill is associated with the name of Governor Phillip, who made many trips afoot and by sea in the course of his exploration of the territory adjacent to Sydney. New Road to Dee Why (1935, September 11). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 43. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article160501155 

This road wasn't the only one being improved locally in 1935 - although it did take a few years for these works to be completed, this was the commencement of the dirt bullock track becoming a tarred road:

Pittwater Rd after construction looking towards Pacific Highway August 1935. Image No.: d1_21454h, , courtesy State Library of NSW

Sydney, 30th October, 1935.

DECLARATION OF ROADS TO BE PUBLIC ROAD

UNDER PROVISIONS OF SECTION 18, PUBLIC ROADS ACT, 1902.

I, Sir Alexander Hore-Ruthven, Governor of the State of New South Wales, with the advice of the Executive Council, do hereby notify that the roads hereunder described, in pursuance of the provisions of section 18, Public Roads Act, 1902, are hereby declared to be public roads, and dedicated to the public accordingly.

A. HORE-RUTHVEN, Governor. E. A. BUTTENSHAW, Minister for Lands.

Descriptions.

...

Municipality of Ku-ring-gai.

Road of variable width, being a widening of part of Pittwater-road (Main Road No. 162) near St. Ives Show Ground. Plan R. 19,756-1,603, parish Manly Cove, county Cumberland, Land District Metropolitan.

DECLARATION OF ROADS TO BE PUBLIC ROAD UNDER PROVISIONS OF SECTION 18, PUBLIC ROADS ACT, 1902. (1935, November 15). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 4452. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223069306

The road to Mona Vale was clearly attracting more traffic and with that came more reports on the state of that road - the firsdt is interesting in that it is headed 'Mona vale Road' but goes on to call the stretch of road the Pittwater-road - must have been confusijng for some, all these 'Pittwater' roads - and a nightmare for those making roadmaps - as is remarked on in a 1939 article:

MONA VALE ROAD.

The Pittwater-road which provides a convenient route from the Western suburbs to the coast are in sand call for careful driving, through St. Ives, to the end of ... beyond the intersection of the road the road is very good, the route onward to Mona Vale are treacherous even In the dry. The gravel surface has been r..n and the holiday traffic, and stone foundation at track ..are glazed and slippery. The ... climbs at Tumbledown Dick, Mona Vale to the uplands are ...asant state, and there is a ten wheel-spin to develop if fast spell. The narrowness of the road the risks and many sections are rutted as well as slippery. MONA VALE ROAD. (1935, December 31).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17208906 

BAD ROAD 

French's Forest Route 

On a recent trip from Pymble to Mona Vale through French's Forest, officers of the N.R.M.A. touring department noticed that the road on the Mona Vale side of the French's Forest turnoff is very, worn and badly in need of top dressing. The surface on Tumble Down Dick and Foley's Hill is also corrugated and in places loose. 

This road carries heavy traffic, as it is one of the most important outlets from the North-Shore suburbs to Palm Beach, Avalon, Mona Vale, Church Point and other popular holiday places in this district. This road is in need of immediate repair, and in view of its importance the N.R.M.A. has taken the matter up with the responsible authorities. BAD ROAD (1936, January 9). The Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate (Parramatta, NSW : 1888 - 1950), p. 16. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article104694165 

When people wanted to 'test' a car - where did they go?:

ROAD TEST.

EIGHT-CYLINDER HUPMOBILE

The new Hupmobile eight-cylinder sedan, known as the "Series 521-0," is a large and powerful model equipped with an imported all-steel body, which provides ample accommodation for six passengers. Its price here, exclusive of sales tax, is £735. The model tested over the "Herald" course had previously covered a fair mileage, but was barely run-in, so that it was not deemed advisable to drive at full throttle for any great distance. Its performances were very satisfactory, not only on account of the results noted in the various tests of hill-climbing and acceleration, but also because of its consistent liveliness, ease of control, and smooth riding on even the worst of roads. There was in all circumstances a sensation of effortless speed and power in hand. With the exception of the "stunt" climb, all hills were taken as a matter of course in top gear and without any rushed starts.

Alfred-street, North Sydney, was begun at 25 m.p.h., and a steady 35 m.p.h. was maintained on the steepest section, after which the rate rose quickly to 45 m.p.h., and had It not been necessary to decelerate In the interest of safety, a very fast finishing speed could have been reached.

The Hupmobile, "series 521-0," eight-cylinder sedan.

At David-street, Mosman, an abrupt hill with practically no variation in gradient, the Hupmobile vindicated the claim that its engine has an even and very efficient power curve, with a high output at low revolutions. That hill was started at 25 m.p.h., and was climbed in top gear at 21 m.p.h., a very convincing example of flexibility, which was the more meritorious in that the engine showed no trace of labouring and the impression gained was that it was not overtaxed in top gear.

Several miles of the route between Mona Vale and the Pacific Highway are in a very poor state, the surface being worn and some of the bends on the steeper hills peculiarly unpleasant. The car came up the long ascent from the coast in excellent style in top, and took the worst corners at good speed with-out any suggestion of wheel-spin or unsteadiness. There was throughout a feeling of stability of springing and complete control of the steering, with an absence of what has been termed a "floating sensation."

The "stunt" hill above Bungaroo swimming pool near St. Ives is dry, rutted, and strewn with loose stones and gravel. On that climb the starting speed was 17 m.p h., and the car kept well to its work in second gear, the speedometer never falling below 20 m.p.h. There was inevitably a little wheel-spin, but far less than might have been expected.

It might be added that motorists who con-template visiting that secluded picnic spot would be well advised not to drive their cars down the steepest pinch of the hill, but to park them on the cleared space just to the left of the post which, before the coming of some vandal, carried a notice warning drivers to change into second gear.

Although no attempt was made to reach absolute maximum speed in top, the Hupmo-bile on a half-mile stretch of level road soon accelerated to 80 m.p.h., at which indi-cated rate the engine was very quiet and the car admirably steady. Suffice It to say that this model is so powerful that cruising speeds to which only very accomplished drivers should aspire can be maintained with plenty of the throttle still In reserve.

In second gear, 55 m.p.h. was registered without driving "flat out," and had it not, been desired to avoid over-driving the engine a faster speed could have been attained.

...

MOTORING (1936, January 28). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved September 1, 2018, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17210699

Another new road off the Pittwater-Lane Cove-Mona Vale road:

COAL AND CANDLE CREEK

THE new road being constructed by the Public Works Department from the Pymble-Mona Vale road (Pittwater-road) to Coal and Candle Creek has been completed for a distance of three miles, and is available for traffic over this section.

The new road will not run to Cottage Point, at the junction of the Cowan and Coal and Candle Creeks, but beyond the site of the construction camp marking the termination of the present completed gravel pavement, it will swing back and gradually work down the hill on to Coal and Candle Creek at a point approximately two miles up the creek from Cottage Point. A mile and a half of road has yet to be constructed, and it is expected that the full length of four and a half miles will be available for traffic in about four months' time. The turn-off from the Pymble-Mona Vale road is a short distance on the Pymble side of the top of Tumbledown Dick Hill. The surface out to Coal and Candle Creek will be gravel throughout. COAL AND CANDLE CREEK (1937, August 1). Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169610787

ROAD REPORTS.

PITTWATER ROAD DANGER SPOT.

Many complaints have leached the N R M A regarding the poor condition and the narrow carriageway on Pittwater Road between the West Head turnoff and Mona Vale. This road is classed as an important link between the north shore suburbs and the various coastal resorts between Narrabeen and Palm Beach and is used by thousands of motorists travelling to the beaches during the summer months.

From Pymble to the West Head turn-off by way of St Ives the road surface is good but from this point to Mona Vale particularly on Tumble Down Dick Hill and Foley s Hill the gravel has become badly worn and the roadway is considered barely wide enough to carry safely the large amount of motor traffic using this route.

The NRMA has taken up the matter with the Department of Main Roads and is urging that this section of road be resurfaced Widened and realigned. 

ROAD REPORTS. (1937, November 5).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17415102 

Looking west along old road, Main road 162 Feb 18th 1938. Image No.: d1_29544h, courtesy State Library of NSW

Looking east along old road from Ch.1650: Main Road 162. February 1938. Image No.: d1_28589, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Looking east along main road 162 Feb 18th 1938. Image No.: d1_29543h, courtesy State Library of NSW

HIGHWAYS IN THE FASTNESSES OF FRENCHS FOREST

New Roads To Unspoilt Beauty Spots

FRENCH'S FOREST is a popular touring ground for Sydney motorists, and work now in progress in the north of the area will open up new country and many attractive picnic places.

THE N.R.M.A. Touring Department reports that probably the most important work is the new road down to Oyster Bay, on Coal and Candle Creek. This route leaves the Pymble-Mona Vale Road and leads for about three miles to a point at the top of the hill overlooking Oyster Bay. The new construction is completed (o this point, but work is proceeding on the section descend ing the hill to the bay. It will be probably a month or two before the hill section is completed and available to traffic. Another new road in this locality will make accessible a very pleasant round trip embracing Church Point on Pittwater. This route, known as the McCarr's Creek road, leads off from the Oyster Bay Road. At the moment construction has been completed for approximately a mile and a half towards Church Point. Work has also been started from the Church Point end, where a short section has been completed. It is expected that the road will be ready for traffic in about eight months. 

A WARNING 

For the time being, motorists are advised not to use the completed section of the McCarr's Creek road, as the formation is narrow and there are very few turning places. With the completion of this road an interesting alternative to the Pymble-Mona Vale trip will be available. The tourist will be able to leave the Pymble-Mona Vale Road west of Tumbledown Dick Hill and travel north, eventually circling to join the existing road at Church Point. The return journey will then be through Mona Vale on to the main Pittwater Road. Both these works are being carried out by the Public Works Department with funds made available for unemployment relief. A road improvement scheme is also to be put in hand in this locality by the Department of Main Roads. 

The Department is to reconstruct the Pymble-Mona Vale Road at Tumbledown Dick. At present this section includes severe turns and sleep grades, and the roadway is narrow. The reconstruction work will eliminate these hazards. New road work is also in progress at Bobbin Head in Kuring-gai Chase. From Bobbin Head construction is proceeding along the northern side of the waterway towards Apple Tree Flat, a mile distant At the present time it is not pro posed to carry this road beyond Apple Tree Flat, but it is likely that a picnic area may be developed at this point. The N.R.M.A. advises motorists that it is not yet possible to use this section of road.

HIGHWAYS IN THE FASTNESSES OF FRENCH'S FOREST (1938, March 20).Truth (Sydney, NSW : 1894 - 1954), p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169087596 

Finally - some tar!:

ROAD WORK ON TUMBLEDOWN DICK HILL

The construction of a new road over Tumbledown Dick Hill, between St. Ives and Mona Vale, is now in progress, and when completed will afford an easier grade, with less severe turns than those on the old road. For the time being, motorists have to negotiate narrow side tracks, which become very slippery after rain. To avoid this section, motorists travelling to Mona Vale and further north towards Palm Beach may follow either the Roseville Bridge-Dee Why route, or go by way of Mosman, The Spit, and Condamine-street. The association has asked the Department of Main Roads to erect notices at the French's Forest road turn-off beyond St. Ives, and at Mona Vale, warning traffic of the work in progress. 

ROAD WORK ON TUMBLEDOWN DICK HILL (1938, June 3). Albury Banner and Wodonga Express (NSW : 1896 - 1938), p. 28. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article102337514 

Aboriginal carvings Main Road 162 taken Feb 18th 1938. Image No.: d1_29539h, courtesy State Library of NSW 

Mona Vale Road, near top of Foleys Hill, looking south, May 1938. Image No.: d1_25344, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Mona Vale Road looking towards Foleys Hill, May 1938. Image No.: d1_26931, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Mona Vale Rd, bottom of Foleys Hill looking west from Alan Street, May 1938. Image No.: d1_25347, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Mona Vale: looking west from Sugarloaf. August 1938. Image No.: d1_27007, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Main Road 162, Shire of Warringah - Tumble Down Dick Hill from ch. 3000 after construction, September 1938. Image No.: d1_32531, NSW Govt Printer series - Main Roads, courtesy State Library of NSW

Mona Vale: looking E from top of Tumble Down Dick Hill. Date: August 1939. Government Printing Office 1 - 27008, courtesy the State Library of NSW. 

And some gravel!:

ROAD REPORTS.

New Road to Church Point.

Officers of the NRMA touring department recently inspected the new road by way of McCarr's Creek to Church Point which has just been completed by the Department of Public Works. The road is of gravel formation of good average width and well graded.

To reach the new road the motorist proceeds along the St Ives-Mona Vale road from Terrey Hills and turns left on to the Coal and Candle Creek road at a small garage. A little more than a mile further on the new road to Church Point bears away to the right. Then follows a long, winding down grade through picturesque bush country. The road crosses the extreme upper reaches of McCarr's Creek near a turn-off to Coal and Candle Creek. This is a new road not yet open to traffic.

A corner store with garage in Terrey Hills, in 1937.

The Church Point road bears slightly to the right and continues over easy grades down the eastern side of McCarr's Creek. In the last two or three miles to Church Point there are some very pretty glimpses of the creek as the road winds round the eastern bank. 

The surface throughout is in very fair condition but until this road is tar sealed the association warns drivers to exercise care as with the dry summer weather and increased traffic loose edges might appear. 

The total distance from the Coal and Candle Creek road turn off to Church Point is five miles. ROAD REPORTS. (1938, December 16).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17562662 

ROAD WITH FIVE NAMES.

A direct road which connects Ryde with northern beaches, and which is known in different sections as Lane Cove Road, Ryde Road, Gordon Road, Stoney Creek Road, and Pittwater Road, causes considerable confusion amongst travellers

The Main Roads Department, in a letter to Ryde Council and other councils, through whose areas the road passes, suggests that one name should be applied to it and asks the councils to suggest a name.

The road, which joins Pittwater Road from Manly, at Mona Vale, will connect with the new Spooner Highway, from Epping to St. Leonards, at Lucknow Road, North Ryde. 

ROAD WITH FIVE NAMES. (1939, February 10). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17547834 

NEW SCENIC ROAD OPENS UP FRESH COUNTRY.

A glimpse of the quaintly-named Coal and Candle Creek from the new scenic road which is being constructed by the Public Works Department. As an accompanying article explains, this road can be reached from Church Point on the Pittwater or from Pymble. It runs through part of the area controlled by the Kuring-gai Chase Trust and opens to the motorist some of the wild and unspoilt areas of the Hawkesbury River country.

NEW SCENIC ROAD OPENS UP FRESH COUNTRY. (1939, April 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17570090

NEW ROADS.

£180,000 TO BE SPENT.

Aiding Unemployed.

ACCESS TO DUFFY'S FOREST.

The State Cabinet has approved the expenditure of £15,000 for the construction of a road to open up about 400 acres of Crown lands in Duffy's Forest, adjacent to French's Forest, and their subdivision into small holdings.

This work is included in a list of road works, which was released by the Premier, Mr. Mair, yesterday. The works will involve an expenditure of nearly £180,000, and will employ at least 660 men under unemployment relief conditions.

Other works are: Improvements to the Orange-Parkes road at an estimated cost of £18,000, to employ 100 men; Yarra level crossing, five miles south of Goulburn, construction of approaches to new bridge and elimination of existing level crossing, cost £24,000, to employ 100 men; Parkes, Wellington road, near- Yeoval, additional work £ 15,000, to employ 40 men; Bathurst-Blayney road, deviation, cost £17,000, to employ 100 men; Braldwood-Tarago road, reconstruction of sections, cost £18,000, to employ 80 men; Tamworth-Gunnedah road; Tamworth-Werris Creek-Qulrindi roads, reconstruction; Tamworth-Nundle road, reconstruction, cost £40,000, to employ 200 men; the construction of 13 miles of road from Kempsey to Crescent Head, at an estimated cost of £23,000; repairs to the roads in the grounds of the Morrisset Mental Hospital, cost £6,000, to employ 40 men. 

NEW ROADS. (1939, December 13). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17622044

DUFFY'S FOREST.

Plans for Subdivision.

It is expected that, with the proposed subdivision of about 400 acres of Crown lands in Duffy's Forest, at the northern end of French's Forest, small holdings, each from approximately eight to ten acres in area, will be made available.

As announced in yesterday's "Herald," the State Cabinet has approved an expenditure of £15,000 for road construction as part of the subdivision scheme.

Duffy's Forest is between Terry Hills-on the road between Pymble and Mona Vale-and Kuring-gai Chase, and is about two and a half miles north of St. Ives Showground. The land which will be made available for small holdings extends roughly from Terry Hills to the boundary of Kuring-gai Chase. It Is suitable mainly for poultry raising, the growing of flowers, and apiculture.

The Minister for Lands will fix the terms on which the subdivided land will be leased, but it Is understood that the area will be thrown open for application by way of special leases for small rentals until the lessees are prepared to convert them Into conditional purchase holdings with the object of securing the freehold. 

DUFFY'S FOREST. (1939, December 14). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 8. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17621131

Escapes Death By Gas

INVESTIGATING a leak in an underground gas main in Pittwater Road, Mona Vale, yesterday, Robert Brown of Pittwater Road, Manly, narrowly escaped death. Brown, an employee of the North Shore Gas Co. Ltd., had traced a leak in the gas supply to the main. A gang of workmen uncovered the pipes and Brown entered the trench to plug the leak. He was unconscious when workmates dragged him from the ditch and carried him to a nearby house. When Manly Ambulance officers arrived Brown was still unconscious, lying on the front lawn. They gave him Co2 gas, and within five minutes he revived sufficiently to be placed in the ambulance and taken to Manly Hospital. On the way, he became violently ill, but after treatment at the hospital he recovered and was allowed to go home. 

Escapes Death By Gas (1940, January 6).Daily News (Sydney, NSW : 1938 - 1940), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article236360559 

The works were completed by late 1940:

PYMBLE TO MONA VALE.

The road between Pymble and Mona Vale through French's Forest has been considerably improved, reports the N.R.M.A. A bituminous surface now extends to the foot of the Sugarloaf Hill on the Mona Vale side, but, as work is in progress between First Rocks Hill and Terry Hills, care should be exercised. From the Sugarloaf to Mona Vale work is in hand between the Elanora turn-off and Mona Vale Cemetery, where gravelling is in progress and traffic should proceed with care. 

PYMBLE TO MONA VALE. (1940, May 2).Catholic Freeman's Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1932 - 1942), p. 36. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article146101811 

Father And Son In Road Smash

SYDNEY.-When a truck in which he and his father were travelling skidded and crashed over an embankment at Mona Vale last night Douglas Smith (22), carrier, of Narrabeen, was almost choked to death by the wreckage of the truck, which fell on him. The truck twice somersaulted and the nearside front wheel pinned Smith by the throat cutting off his breath until near by-residents lifted the wreckage off him. By that time he was black in the face. Father and son were admitted to hospital in a serious condition. 

Father And Son In Road Smash (1945, April 18). Barrier Miner (Broken Hill, NSW : 1888 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article49999137 

Man Killed in Road Smash

SYDNEY, Saturday. Ernest Hillier (55), stonemason, of Cabbagetree Road, Mona Vale, was killed last night when his car came in collision with a military truck.

An eye-witness told the police that Hillier had been catapulted from the driver's seat and hurled 16 feet into the roadway. He was killed instantly. Police were told that two men and a woman jumped from the truck and ran away. 

Man Killed in Road Smash (1945, December 15). Glen Innes Examiner (NSW : 1908 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article185424006 

In 1946 there were more resumptions to make Foley's Hill safer and new sections were declared to be part of Public Road No: 162 along the whole road:

Sydney, 24th July, 1946.

RESUMPTION OF LANDS AND DEDICATION OF ROADS UNDER SECTION 9, AND DECLARATION OF ROADS TO BE PUBLIC ROAD U3STDER SECTION 38, PUBLIC ROADS ACT, 1902, AND OF THE CLOSING OF ROADS.

I, the Honourable Sir Frederick Richard Jordan, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New South Wales, with the advice of the Executive Council, do hereby notify that in accordance with the provisions of section 9, Public Roads Act, 1002, the lands described hereunder and required for' the roads specified, shall be and are hereby resumed and dedicated as public road; and in accordance with the provisions of section 18 of such Act, the roads described hereunder are hereby declared to be public road, and dedicated to the public accordingly; and also that the roads hereunder specified (intending closing of which has been duly notified), are hereby closed.

P. R. JORDAN, Lieutenant-Governor.

W. F. DUNN, Minister for Lands.

Description or Road opened:—Deviation loop and widening at Foley's Hill, of part of the road from Ryde to Mona Vale, Main Road No. 162, parish Narrabeen, county Cumberland,— as shown on plan deposited in the Department of Lands, Sydney, and catalogued R. 23,205-1,603 roll. R. 45-2. D.M.R. 479-1,242.

Particulars of lands resumed and dedicated as public road, of parts of roads declared to be public road, and of parts of roads which are now closed are given in Schedule hereunder.

A proposal to close the parts of roads mentioned was published in the Government Gazette of 7th December, 1945.

RESUMPTION OF LANDS AND DEDICATION OF ROADS UNDER SECTION 9, AND DECLARATION OF ROADS TO BE PUBLIC ROAD UNDER SECTION 18, PUBLIC ROADS ACT, 1902, AND OF THE CLOSING OF ROADS. (1946, August 2). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1777. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224791612

SPEEDSTERS IN OPEN ROAD EVENT

AT TOP: Woman rider Miss Nancy Campbell talking with competitors Dave Jenkins (left) and Tom Hanson before the senior expert division at the Open Road Hill Climb at Foley's Hill, Mona Vale, yesterday. The events were organised by the Northern Districts Motor Cycle Association. 

LOWER: G. Ryan takes a spill during the lightweight event. 

SPEEDSTERS IN OPEN ROAD EVENT (1950, October 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article27570891 

Roadside stop in 1951 in colour from what were then practically the rural outskirts of Sydney. Source: heavylambs panoramia

In 1951 Main road No.: 162 finally received the official naming we know this road by today:

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1950.—PROCLAMATION.

(L.S.) J. NORTHCOTT, Governor.

I, Lieutenant-General Sir John Northcott, Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Companion of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, Member of the Royal Victorian Order, Governor of the State of New South Wales and its Dependencies, in the Commonwealth of Australia, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in terms of section 8 of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1950, and in pursuance of the Transport (Division of Functions) Act, 1932-1950, do by this proclamation give and notify to the main roads or portions thereof described in the first column of the Schedule hereto the names appearing opposite thereto in the second column of the said Schedule.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this tenth day of January, 1951.

By His Excellency's Command,

W. F. SHEAHAN, Minister for Transport.

GOD SAVE THE KING!

Schedule.

Description.                                                                                                                          Name. 

That portion of Main Roads Nos. 159 and 164 from Raglan-street, Manly,                    Pittwater-road.

to Mona Vale, and Main Road No. 174 from Main Road No. 164 at Mona Vale 

to Church Point.                                      

Main Road No. 164 from Mona Vale to Ocean-road, Palm Beach.                                  Barrenjoey-road.

Main Road No. 162 from the Pacific Highway (State Highway No. 10) at Pymble         Mona Vale road.

to Main Road No. 164 at Mona Vale.

Main Road No. 174 from Church Point to Main Road No. 162 at Terry Hill.                        McCarrs Creek road.

Main Road No. 328 from Pittwater- road (Main Road No. 164), Brook-vale,                       Warringah-road.

to Roseville Bridge within the Shire of Warringah.

(D.M.R. 479-5,320)

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1950.—PROCLAMATION. (1951, February 2). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 290. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220102904

Improvements continued:

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1951.

Notification of Approval of Governor to Plans of a Proposal for the Realignment (by the Realignment Method of Acquisition) of Part of Gordon-road, Main Road No. 162, at its Intersection, with Pitt water-road, Main Road No. 164, in the Shire of Warringah, under Division 1 of Part Yb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1951.

IN pursuance of the provisions of section 27e of the Main Roads Act, 1024-1951, the Commissioner for Main Roads, who proposes to cause the alignment of part of Gordon-road, Main Road No. 162, as abovementioned. to be realigned pursuant to Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1951, and to apply the realignment method of acquisition to the lands affected by such realignment, hereby notifies that the plan of the proposal has been approved by His Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, and that such plan (being plan No, 162S146) may be inspected at the Department of Main Roads and copies of such plan may be Inspected at the Shire of Warringah Council Chambers. (D.M.R. 479-1,481)

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this 27th day of February, 1952.

(us.) A. E. TOYER, Commissioner for Main Roads.

I, Alfred Edward Toyee, the Commissioner for Main Roads, have hereto affixed the official seal of the Commissioner for Main Roads in the presence of J. Fleming, J.P. 

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1951. (1952, March 14). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 805. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220004424

A dual carriageway mooted:

New ROAD PLAN

Department of Main Roads has announced provision has been made in its 1957 -'58 programme of works for the construction of an additional lane in Mona Vale Road and Forest Way, Terrey Hills. This will facilitate traffic movement at the junction of the two roads. Motorists who have experienced the heavy congestion that occurs in this locality during many weekends will welcome the advice received by the N.R.M.A. This follows representations drawing attention to the abnormal banking-up of traffic, which, at times was felt as far back as St. Ives. New Road Plan (1957, June 19). The Cumberland Argus (Parramatta, NSW : 1950 - 1962), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article132134022 

And at the Pacific Highway end:

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1960

Notification

Municipality of Ku-ring-gai and Shire of Warringah. Main Road No. 162—Mona Vale road. Proposed widening between Killeaton-street and Palm-street, also between St. Ives Showground and West Head road (Main Road . No. 174)

IN pursuance of the provisions of section 27e of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1960, The Commissioner for Main Roads who proposes to cause the alignment of parts of Main Road No. 162—Mona Vale road between Killeaton-street and Palmstreet, also between St. Ives Showground and West Head road (Main Road No. 174) within the Municipality of Ku-ring-gai and Shire of Warringah to be realigned pursuant to Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1960, and to apply the realignment method of acquisition to the lands affected by such realignment being the lands described in the Schedule hereto hereby notifies that plans of the proposal have been approved by His Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, and that such plans (catalogued as 162.S.176, 162.S.177, 162.S.178 and 162.S.179 in the Department of Main Roads and lodged with the Registrar-General's Department on 31st May, 1963, and numbered as Deposited Plans 218,266, 218,267, 218,269 and 218,268, respectively), may be inspected at the Department of Main Roads and copies of such plans may be inspected at the Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council Chambers, Gordon, and the Warringah Shire Council Chambers, Brookvale.

Schedule

Lots 1-6 inclusive, 8, 10-24 inclusive, 26-30 inclusive, 32-37 inclusive, 39 and 40, Deposited Plan 218,266.

Lots 57, 72 and 73, Deposited Plan 218,267. Lots 89 and 90, Deposited Plan 218,269.

Lots 91, 96, 97 and 99-111 inclusive, Deposited Plan 218,268.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this second day of August, one thousand nine hundred and sixty-three.

I, John Alexander Lachlan Shaw, The Commissioner for Main Roads have hereto affixed the Official Seal of The Commissioner for Main Roads in the presence of—

C. W. Mansfield, J.P.

(L.S.)

J. A. L. SHAW.

(D.M.R. No. 238-1,665) of Approval of Governor to Plans of a Proposal for Realignment Under Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1960

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1960 (1963, August 16). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 2415. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220335648

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1963
Notification of Approval of Governor to Plans of a Proposal for Realignment under Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1963
Municipality of Ku-ring-gai. Main Road No. 162—Mona Vale road. Proposed widening between Pacific Highway (State Highway No. 10) and Killeaton-street.

IN pursuance of the provisions of Section 27e of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1963, The Commissioner for Main Roads who proposes to cause the alignment of parts of Main Road No. 162—Mona Vale road, between Pacific Highway (State Highway No. 10) and Killeaton-street, within the Municipality of Ku-ring-gai to be realigned pursuant to Division 1 of Part Vb of the Main Roads Act, 1924-1963, and to apply the realignment method of acquisition to the lands affected by such realignment being the lands described in the Schedule hereto hereby notifies that plans of the proposal have been approved by His Excellency the Governor with the advice of the Executive Council and that such plans (catalogued as 162.S.182 and 162.S.183 in the Department of Main Roads and lodged with the Registrar-General's Department on 20th December, 1963, and numbered as Deposited Plans 220,613 and 220,614 respectively) may be inspected at the Dpartment of Main Roads and copies of such plans may be inspected at the Ku-ring-gai Municipal Council Chambers, Gordon.

Schedule

Lots 1-62 inclusive, 64-88 inclusive and 90-108 inclusive, Deposited Plan 220,613.

Lots 1-24 inclusive and 26-36, inclusive, Deposited Plan 220,614.

Signed and sealed at Sydney, this first day of May, one thousand nine hundred and sixty-four.

I, Russell John Starr Thomas, The Deputy Commissioner for Main Roads, have hereto affixed the Official Seal of The Commissioner for Main Roads in the presence of—

C. W. Mansfield, J.P. (D.M.R. No. 238-1,712)

(L.S.)

E. J. S. THOMAS.

MAIN ROADS ACT, 1924-1963 (1964, May 15). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 1529. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220380505

Roadside stall at Terrey Hills, 1966

The Great Railway Schemes

PROPOSED NEW RAILWAY.

FROM GORDON TO NARRABEEN.

On Saturday Mr. J. Estell, Minister for Works, inspected the route of a proposed railway line from Gordon, on the North Shore line, to the coast near Narrabeen. The Minister was accompanied on his tour by Messrs. Bavin and Greig, Ms.L.A., Mr. W. R. Fitzsimons (president of the Kuring-gai Shire Council), and councillors, and by Mr. J. Hughes and members of the St. Ives Rail-way League.

The route suggested, of which an exploration survey has been made by Mr. Scott Griffiths, is 11 1/2 miles in length. From Gordon station it follows the line of Stoney Creek to Pratten Hill, and thence along the west side of High Ridge to St. Ives. After passing Cowan-road the route passes through orchard land of an easy grade to First Rocks, on the boundary of Kuring-gai and Warringah shires. From that point it follows closely the ridge traversed by the Pittwater-Ryde road, and by a wide sweep drops down under the declivity of Tumbledown Dick. Then, skirting Sugarloaf Hill, it runs along the valley to Narrabeen. The general grade through-out is 1 in 96.

The tour most effectively demonstrated that an immense district suitable both for fruit-growing and the settlement of a very large suburban population would be available close to the metropolis if the proposed line were constructed. Easy access would be given to the beaches north of Manly, and Kuring-gai Chase. 60,000 acres in extent, the great national playground of the people, would be brought close to their doors. From a scenic point of view the line would rival some of the famous sections of the State railways; the views of rugged wooded country, and alluring coastline obtainable from many points being probably unequalled in Australia.

At St. Ives the inspecting party visited the orchards of Messrs. Russel, Hensman, and Symington, and obtained first-hand knowledge of the capabilities of the district. The rows of orange and mandarin trees heavily laden with golden fruit, grown on the rich loam on Mr. Russel's property, and the luscious fruit produced by the heavily fertilised sandy soil on Mr. Symington's holding deeply impressed the visitors. Though the soils differed the quality of the fruit was superb in both cases. Mr. Symington informed tho party that he had taken 3500 cases of oranges and mandarins off seven acres in one year. The railway route lies through 8000 acres of Crown land, similar to Mr. Symington's.

At a luncheon provided by the St. Ives Rail-way League Mr. J. Hughes, the president, stated that the proposed line would traverse about three miles of private property ; the rest was Crown land, suitable for fruit-growing. The increase in land values, apart from passenger receipts, would pay for the con-of the line. The land now lay idle.

Mr. Estell pointed out the necessity for de-centralisation. There were two lines of railway running north from Sydney, yet there were no connections with the coast ports. Congestion in Sydney should be prevented, and men enabled to go to that district and take up 1 1/2 acre, and establish comfortable homes. In New South Wales there were public works to cost 14 millions still uncompleted. When some were completed he hoped to take new work in hand. He saw one of the finest parts of the country in that district, and he would promise to have a trial survey made from Gordon to the coast. Then he would ask the Commissioners to prepare a report for sub-mission to Parliament. Messrs. Bavin and Greig urged the construction of the line, and emphasised the relief it would give to congested city areas. Mr. Fitzsimons gave valuable Information as to the growth of the district and its potentialities. After lunch the remainder of the route was inspected. On arrival at Mona Vale the visitors were received by Mr. A. G. Parr, president, and councillors of Warringah shire, and a desire was expressed to co-operate with the people of Kuring-gai shire in securing the construction of the railway.

PROPOSED NEW RAILWAY. (1921, June 13). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15958623

PARK FOR ST. IVES.

While Inspecting the route for a proposed railway from Gordon to Narrabeen on Saturday, Mr. Estell (Minister for Works) was shown a site on the Crown lands near First Rocks, on the Pittwater-Ryde road, which the Kuring-gai Shire Council is desirous of securing as a park and showground for St. Ives and district. Forty to sixty acres set aside now, said the shire president Mr. W. R. Fitzsimons, would make provision for the future. The Minister promised to favourably recommend the request to his colleague, Mr. Loughlin. PARK FOR ST. IVES. (1921, June 13). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15958692

Mona Vale views: Mona Vale, Call Number Government Printing Office 1 – 15675, courtesy of the State Library of NSW.

Extras And References

1. TROVE. National Library of Australia.

2. PROFILES  OF  THE  PIONEERS IN MANLY,  WARRINGAH  AND  PITTWATER. by Shelagh Champion, OAM, B.A.(Lib.Sc.) and George Champion, OAM, Dip.Ed.Admin. 1996

3. Edwards, Zeny, Pymble, Dictionary of Sydney, 2010, http://dictionaryofsydney.org/entry/pymble

4. Ku-ring-gai Historical Society Inc

"TUMBLEDOWN DICK"

This nickname was borne by Richard Cromwell, second Protector of England, who died in 1712. Son of Oliver Cromwell, he reigned for only nine months after his father's death.

He had led a gay youth, loved field sports, and even drunk King Charles' health with Cavaliers, but when the Army made him leave Whitehall he said to adherents, 'I will not have a drop of blood spilt in the preservation of my greatness, which is a burden to me," and went unresistingly into oblivion, taking with him an old hair trunk of documents. He was £29,000 to debt, due partly to his father's funeral, and he had been in great danger of arrest, but, prudently “Shut himself up in his cabinet" and went to France, where he lived in retirement as John Clarke, reading and painting landscapes.

"TUMBLEDOWN DICK" (1942, October 28). The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954), , p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article193188654

TUMBLEDOWN DICK.

Old witch flying on a kitchen chair,

Cat on her shoulder, tail In the air

Man in the moon goes shivery all over.

Calls to his little dog, "At them, Rover!"

Cat starts mialling,

Dog bow-wowing,

Moon gets terrified and tips right over;

Man comes tumbling down into a motor.

"Hey!" says the taxi-man, "where shall I go ter?"

"Take me to Norwich,

They've hot pease-porridge,

That's what I want, for I'm shivery all over;

I can't find my way there without little Rover!"

L. H. ALLEN.

TUMBLEDOWN DICK. (1926, May 29). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), , p. 11. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16295334

TRAINING CAMP FOR BOY SCOUT OFFICERS. APPROACH TO THE CAMP, BETWEEN PYMBLE AND NARRABEEN, TO BE OPENED BY THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL ON MARCH 7.

This beautiful stretch of country is the gift of Mr. V. Roinel and Mr. and Mrs. Danvers Power, to the Boy Scout movement of New South Wales, for a training camp for officers and rovers, similar to the well known establishment at Gillwell Park in England. The cleared space In the picture indicates the site of the actual camp itself. The estate, which is now the splendid domain of the Boy Scout movement, is known as Korman Hurst, and is at the foot of Tumbledown Dick Hill, between Pymble and Narrabeen. Mr. Kelso King has provided the funds for fitting out the camp, which will be opened on March 7 by the Governor-General (Lord Forster). The estate, eminently fitted, is considered, for the work of the movement, includes three structures, one of which a three-roomed cottage will be used as a clubroom and library. The two other buildings will be used for Red Cross purposes and for stores and offices. An Honourable Charge has been Issued by the Chief Scout (Major-Ge neral Sir Robert Baden-Powell) to Mr. Hartley MacAlllster, Deputy Commissioner, authorising him to act as a Deputy Camp Chief at the now camp. Accompanying this document were the little badge beads of office.TRAINING CAMP FOR BOY SCOUT OFFICERS. (1925, January 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16187662

TUMBLEDOWN DICK RESERVE. 

The NRMA recently approached the Lands Department with a suggestion that two areas on Tumbledown Dick Hill on the road between St Ives and Mona Vale, French's Forest be acquired as public reserves The Department has advised the association that the site on the southern side of the road is on freehold land, and it considers that the entailed resumption would not be warranted Regarding the area on the northern side however a comprehensive design for future disposal of a large area of Crown land in this locality is, being prepared and an appropriate area will be set aside for public recreation when the scheme is finalised.  TUMBLEDOWN DICK RESERVE. (1939, April 25). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), , p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17592512 

Early Settlers Along The Ways

In The Supreme Court.

Campbell Jun. v. Daniel Deering Mathew.

BY Virtue of a Writ of Fieri Faeias to me directed in the above-named Cause, I will Put up and Sell by Public Auction, at my-Office, in Hunter-street, Sydney on Friday 25th Day of October instant, at the Hour of 11 O'clock, A. M. A FARM, containing 400 Acres of land, situate at Lane Cove, the Property of the Defendant; unless the Execution thereon be previously discharged. No title (1822, October 18). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2181386 

PROVOST MAKSHAL'S OFFICE, OCT. 10, 1822. "NOTICE.- Having received a Communication from Mr. Secretary GOULBURN, under Date of the 7th Instant conveying certain Instructions from his EXCELLENCY the GOVERNOR, for my Guidance in the Discharge of one of the Duties of my Department, as Provost Marshal of the Territory, I hereby give Notice to all whom it may concern, that the following is a Copy of the Communication with which I have been so honored.

J. T. CAMPBELL, Provost Marshall

(COPY.)

COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE, OCT. 7, 1822. " SIR,

" The Attention of the GOVERNOR has been arrested by some Advertisements from your Office, tendering in Public Sale; certain Grants, very recently executed by the late Governor (MACQUARIE); the Purchasers of those Estates will undoubtedly take them, with all the risks attendant on the Conditions of their Grants being either unperformed or violated :-I am accordingly directed to have the honor to request, that, at the Time of Sale, this Circumstance be duly noticed to the Public by you, Sir, as a high and public fairer, enjoying the peculiar Prerogative to promote His Majesty's Profit in all Things that belong to your Office, as far as you legally can or may truly to preserve the King's Rights, and all that belongeth to the Crown not to consent to decrease, lessen, or conceal the King's Rights, or the Rights of His Franchises:-whensoever you shall have Knowledge that the Rights of the Crown are concealed or withdrawn, be it in Lands, Rents, Franchises, Suits, or Services, or in any other Matter or Thing, to do your utmost to make them " to be restored to the Crown again i-and if you " may not do it yourself, to certify and inform the " King thereof, or some of His Judges."

I have the honor to be. Sir,
your most obedient humble Servant,
F. GOULBURN, Colonial Secretary/' 
John Thomas Campbell, "Esq.

Provost Marshal of New South Wales. No title (1822, October 18). The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1803 - 1842), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article2181386 

TWO POUNDS REWARD..

THE PUBLIC are hereby cautioned against employing THOMAS WHITMORE, a Prisoner, he having left my employment before the time of his Agreement was completed ; and a REWARD of TWO POUNDS will be paid by me to any person giving information where the said THOMAS WHIT'EMORE may be at work, after this Notice immediately return to his work, he will be apprehended and prosecuted, agreeable to the Act of Council in such case may be provided.

DANIEL DEERING MATTHEWS.

Rosedale, Lane Cove, 2nd April, 1834.

Advertising (1834, May 10). The Sydney Monitor (NSW : 1828 - 1838), p. 1 (MORNING). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article32146255 

CAUTION.

THE UNDERSIGNED having given a PROMISSORY NOTE at three' months for .£24 155. Od., to Mr. EDWIN BOOKER, upon certain conditions which he has not performed. I hereby CAUTION the PUBLIC ~not to receive this NOTE in payment, as I have received no value for-the same.

DANIEL DEERING MATHEWS. 
Rosedale, lane Cove, 1
13th Oct., 1836.

Advertising (1836, October 24). The Sydney Monitor (NSW : 1828 - 1838), p. 1 (EVENING). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article32152568 

PHENOMENON EXTRAORDINARY.
To the Editors of the Sydney Morning Herald.

GENTLEMEN,-As a regularly educated physician who has studied and practised physic as well as all the branches of natural philosophy for nearly fifty years, I am going to relate a fact, of which I had ocular demonstration, of phosphorus in an active state being found in the internal membrane of the gizzard or stomach of a domesticated fowl. One of my fowls was ill, apparently from fighting, it was killed, and upon opening it two or three hours after, the internal membrane of the stomach, which contained nothing but the seeds of the rose canina, commonly called the sweet briar, I found upon the least pressure with the knife volumes of smoke were emitted, the smell was decidedly phosphoric , the membrane I kept until dark, when it was as luminous as a stick of phosphorus rubbed upon a wall. Now every medical man and natural philosopher knows that phosphorus in a combined state is contained in the bones and some of the secretions of all animals, and it is distinctly visible in fishes after a partial decomposition. I shall be much obliged to any scientific gentleman to solve this problem. From what little knowledge I have obtained from books study, and experiment

I am now completely in the dark. I

DANIEL DERING MATHEW, (sic.) [Matthew]
Cali. : Coll. Cantab. 

PHENOMENON EXTRAORDINARY. (1843, May 16). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12426679 

THE BITE OF A CENTIPEDE.
To the Editors of the Sydney Morning Herald,

GENTLEMEN,—It has been supposed that the bite of a centipede is generally attended with either the loss of limb, paralysis, or sometimes death, in all hot countries, particularly the East and West Indies, and other countries within the tropics ; but in this colony, for the information of medical practitioners, as well as the public at large, I will give a short account of a very dangerous case of a sawyer bit by a centipede.

This man came to me on the 14th February of the present year, with his arm swollen to three times its natural size, the heat of which was nearly equal to boiling water, the  poison having been retained so long in the arm as to affect the whole system, so much so that he was in a very high fever. The patient did not know what was the matter with his arm, and therefore neglected it ; but upon examination I found two small punctures made by the forceps of the insect, after the cicatrix was removed, being very near the elbow. I have attended this man nearly six weeks, and am now happy to say that he is perfectly cured, and that he has the complete use of his arm, and can work at his trade as well as he could before he was bitten.

There is another insect in hot countries called a scorpion, which is also considered venomous. Above twenty years ago, one of my men came to me and said he was stung by a scorpion. I at first did not believe him, but he persisted in saying he saw the insect on his hand, and killed it, after it had stung him. This happened about the middle of summer; and upon examining his hand with a micro-scope I discovered the place. I made him wash and keep wet the part with a saturated solution of muriate of ammonia, and in a few minutes the pain was allayed, and the hand never swelled, nor was it in any way affected afterwards. As this application was made momentarily, as an experiment, I cannot say it is a specific ; but it is to be observed, the man came to me in less than two minutes after he was stung, so that no absorption of the poison could have extended far : and I am of

opinion that, until active inflammation is produced, by the incision of the teeth, fangs, claws, forceps, proboscis, or sting, no absorption can take place of the poison of any reptile; but that the venom of some animals is more active, and is imbibed sooner into the system,   than others, I will admit.

DANIEL DERING MATHEW, 
Collegii Socius Cati Coll. Cantab.
Rosedale, March 25. 

THE BITE OF A CENTIPEDE. (1845, March 27). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12878312 

DIED. On the 13th instant, at his residence, Rosedale, Lane Cove, Daniel Dering Mathew, Esq., in the 71st year of his age. Family Notices (1856, June 18). Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875), p. 4. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60249445 

DEATHS. On the 13th instant, at his residence, Rosedale, Lane Cove, Daniel Dering Mathew, Esq., in the 71st year of his age.  Family Notices (1856, June 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 1. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12977845 

THIS DAY, half-past 12 o'clock. At. Rosedale, Lane Cove. In the Estate of the late Daniel Dering Mathews, of Rosedale, Lane Cove.  Household Furniture. Horses, Gig-, Harness, Poultry, Blacksmiths' Tools, Lathe, and Effects, &c, &c

BOWDEN and THRELKELD have received instructions from the Executor of the estate of the late Daniel Dering Mathews, to sell by auction, at his late residence, Rosedale, Lane Cove, THIS DAY, Monday, 23rd June, at half-past 12 o'clock prompt, Household furniture and effects. Horse, gig, and harness. Cart. Poultry. Blacksmiths' tools. Turning lathe, &c,, &c, &c. Terms at sale.

Advertising (1856, June 23). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12977598 

In the Insolvent Estate of John Pearson.

By order of the Official Assignee, RICHARDS0N & WRENCH have received instructions from F. W. Perry, Esq.. Official Assignee, to sell by public auction, at the rooms, Pitt-street, on Monday, 11th February, at 11 o'clock, all his right, title, and interest in and to the following properties in the above Estate—

Lot 27 of the Rosedale Estate, Lane Cove, containing 15 acres 2 roods and 20 perches, fronting Stoney Creek Road, being portion of D. D. Matthews' grant.

Allotment No. 4 of section 2, Village of St. Peter's, having about 30 feet frontage to the Cook's River Road, with a depth of about 99 feet.

Plans at the rooms.

Terms—Cash.

RICHARDSON & WRENCH have received instructions from F. W. Perry, Esq., Official Assignee, (1861, February 5). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 364. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230060154 

NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT.

- APPLICATIONS having been made to bring the Lauds-hereunder described .under the provisions of The  Real Properly Act, Certificates of indefeasible title will secure, unless Caveats be lodged in form of the said Act, on or before the dates named opposite of each case respectively. 

NO. 713, Lane Cove, Parish of Gordon 60 acres, being part of the Rosedale Estate, as originally granted to the late Daniel Dering Mathews. Applicant – George Thorne, Sydney March 31. Advertising (1865, February 18). Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60566123 

George Mudie

George Mudie a sawyer age 60 died Apr 29 1866 at Lane Cove. Cause of death marasmus, Born 1805.
Son of James Mudie a watchmaker and jeweller and Margaret Smith. Informant Robert Mudie, brother of Lane Cove.

Assisted immigrants who arrived in NSW aboard the ship John Barry in Jul 1837. The indent recorded:
Mudie, George, a native of Stanley Perthshire, age 29, married, Presbyterian, could read and write, blacksmith, no rleatives in the colony
Mudie, Ann, a native of Luncarty Perthshire, age 27, married, Presbyterian, could read and write
Mudie, Frances, 7, native place Glasgow
Mudie, Margaret, 5, native place Aberdeen

Buried May 1 1866 at Sydney, Robert Mudie undertaker
Born Perthshire Scotland, 29 years in colony
Married (1) Stanley Perthshire Scotland to Ann Cook
Married (2) not known
Children of marriage:
Fanny (Lane) about 36
Margaret (Miles) 34
George 26
Agnes (Veilly) about 22

George Mudie, senior, of the North Shore, was brought before the Court charged with having neglected to register the death of his child. Defendant's child had been treated by Dr. Rutter, in October last and died on the 20th of that month, when Dr. Rutter gave defendant's wife the necessary cer-tificate, telling her to take it to Dr. Ward, the district registrar. Defendant on the 20th October did take the certificate to Dr. Ward, but after office hours, and as the document did not contain all the information required, he was told that be must call again within thirty days. Defendant never called again, and thus in fact no registry was made. Defendant pleaded ignorance in the matter, and the Bench not being unanimous as to the proof of the offence, made no order in the case. WATER POLICE COURT. (1859, February 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13021553

A man named George Mudie, aged 62 years, died at his brother's residence, Lane Cove, on Sunday last. The City Coroner received the following notes, the first being an enclosure of the second:— "Sydney, April 30th, 1866. I certify that George Mudie, aged 60, died from marasmus, on 29th instant J. Anderson, M.D." This was addressed to Dr. Ward, district registrar, St Leonards, who wrote to the Coroner—"My dear sir, I have received the accompanying certificate, signed J. Anderson, M.D. As the name is unknown to me, and as I do not believe in such a disease as marasmus causing the death of a man of 60, and, as the certificate does not state when the deceased was last seen, I have deferred registering till I hear from you. There is in the medical directory a Dr W. J. Anderson, who is a qualified man, but no Dr. J. Anderson. Please let me hear from you as soon as possible. Believe me, &c., R. D. Ward." The Coroner made inquiries and found deceased had been ailing for several months, and though the body had been removed to the Union Inn, North Shore, declined to hold an inquest being satisfied that such was unnecessary. On reference to tho Nosological Index, pub-lished by Government in 1863, page 9, marasmus is defined as emaciation, atrophy, debility. Surely a man of 60 can die of marasmus.  ADELAIDE. (1866, May 3). Empire (Sydney, NSW : 1850 - 1875), p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article60595683

William Henry McKeown

LANE COVE ROAD.
TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD.

Sir-It will appear to persons unacquainted with St. Leonards and the above named road, that Mr. Tunks, in his reply to my letter of the 29th May, has made a crushing defence against the charge of selfishness and neglect of duty preferred by me.

Persons travelling from Sydney to Pennant Hills will be able to give a true verdict, that, while the road through parts of St Leonards and Willoughby is almost impassable, that portion (viz., 13 miles) kept by the Minor Roads grant is in good repair.

I now see that in my letter I left a loophole, and that Mr. Tunks has availed himself of it.

I should have said-that portion of road north of St. Leonards township.

Mr Tunks states that the Borrough has spent from six to seven hundred pounds on the main road, and I have no reason to doubt the correctness of this statement. The street has been kerbed and guttered, and the road made level and good up to and a little past Mr. Berry's gate, and on this I ground my charge of selfishness and injustice, by keeping the road good to gentlemen's residence, and stopping there.

Now, did Mr. Berry live a mile further on, we should have no reason to complain of the state of the road. There are no gentlemen's residences beyond his in the borough, and in consequence that part of the road is neglected

Also, on the fact referred to by Mr Tunks, that the inhabitants of St. Leonards are contributing to the public revenue through the Custom-house by the same rule we contribute to the revenue from which the municipalities receive their endowment. Again, if the municipalities were not in existence we would have the "minor roads grant," of which we have been deprived.

When East St. Leonards was proclaimed, ten or eleven years since, the grant to this road was reduced by £50 per annum. When Willoughby was proclaimed a further reduction of £125 was made, thus making it very clear that the duty of repairing the road was thrown upon the boroughs through which it passes. Mr. Tunks refreshes my memory with reference to the state of the road past Mr. Muston's about two years since; if I should live for a hundred years I could not forget that. I contributed to lay down a road of saplings on the footpath, to enable carts to get along. I now take the liberty of refreshing Mr. Tunks's memory, and ask him if that state of things was not brought about by two end half years' neglect on the part of the Borough Council of St Leonards, which came into existence some four or five years previously. He cannot saddle the trustees with the bad state of the road two years since. I will not discuss this matter farther, publicly, with Mr. Tunks. As our representative in Parliament and Mayor of St Leonards we have a right to look to him to have the present state of things remedied in some way.

Yours, &c.,
W. H. McKEOWN.
Rosedale, Lane Cove, 6th June.

LANE COVE ROAD. (1872, June 11). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13258915 

A FARM OF 98 ACRES, AT LANE COVE, AND  ONE OF 47 ACRES

By order of the Trustees in the Assigned Estate of Mr. William Henry M'Keown.

T. W. BOWDEN is instructed by the trustees to sell by auction, at the Land Sale Rooms, 154, Pitt-street, on THURSDAY, the 24th January, at 11 o'clock,

A farm of 98 acres, purchased from the Crown by Mr. M'Keown, situated in the parish of Gordon, Lane Cove, commencing at the north-east comer of John Ayre's 326 acres ; bounded on the north, by a road one chain wide ; on the east, by a road, one chain wide ; on the south, by the northern boundary of a farm 99 acres, being a line west, 64 chains 92 links ; and on the west, by a part of the eastern boundary line of John Ayre's 320 acres, being a line bearing; north 15 chains 44 links, exclusive of a road one chain wide, from Parramatta to Pittwater, passing through this grant in a northerly direction.

Also a farm of 47 acres, in the same parish, commencing on a road, one chain wide, at the south-west corner of a measured portion of 47 acres ; and bounded on the north by the southern boundary of that land, being a line bearing east 30 chains ; on the east, by a line bearing south, 15 chains 72 links; on the south, by a northern boundary, of a measured portion of 47 acres, being a line bearing west 30 chama ; and on the weet, by the aforesaid rood, dividing it from part of S. Morley's 60 acres, bearing north 15 chains 72 links, to the south-west corner of the 47 acres aforesaid.

These farms were selected by Mr. M'Keown as suitable for orchards, and purchased by him from the Government for that purpose. Terms at sale.  Advertising (1867, January 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 7. Retrieved  from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13138990 

HCA4 is the location of the second subdivision (1892) known as Roseville Estate, by the orchardist William McKeown. Church Street, Mona Vale Road and Orana Avenue mark the boundaries of the subdivision. Orana Avenue also marks the driveway entrance to a second McKeown house located at no25 Orana Avenue. The conservation area records the historical layer of subdivision of rural land used for orchards for the development of suburbs of Ku-ring-gai. Though the subdivision dates from 1892, the development of the site and did not occur until the inter-War period. This is a record of the economic shifts of boom and bust when larger properties in Ku-ring-gai were subdivided and development delayed until the economy recovered. The impetus for these subdivisions was the planning of the railway with its staged development from 1887 and eventual link from St Leonards to Hornsby in 1890.

HCA4 is built predominantly Inter-War and immediate post war houses which provides a consistency of style, scale and materials. The setbacks from the street and between neighbouring houses allow for mature gardens and trees which creates a consistent suburban context that typifies Ku-ring-gai’s suburbs. These elements in combination with street trees, a high tree canopy and the relief and..

The HCA4 is located to the wet of Mona Vale Road and includes Church Street, Orana Avenue and Kywong Avenue. The layout of this area to the west of Mona Vale Road has been determined by the historical subdivision of orchards in 1892. This area was developed in the Inter-War period and includes a number of houses of this period and immediate Post War houses. The area of Kywong Avenue includes some 1950s and 1980s houses and follow the creek line and that forms and densely vegetated riparian landscape.

The second McKeown House is located at the north-western bend of Orana Avenue. The house is hidden from view by the new houses resulting rom then subdivision of front garden.

Orana Avenue was originally the entrance drive to the McKeown house and retains a driveway form with unformed kerb and gutter, informal street tree planting to edge of street and no footpaths.

About Frank Walker. F.R.A.H.S

MR. FRANK WALKER, J P., F.R.A.H.S.

One of the Founders of the Royal Australian Historical Society.

Mr. Frank Walker was born at South Yarra, Victoria, in 1861, and came to reside permanently in Sydney in 1885. He always showed a keen interest in history, and made an early start in the collection of Australian historical data, which now is of immense value to him. Feeling that Australians in general should know more of their own country, he, in company with other kindred spirits, set about the formation of an Australian Historical Society, which after several ups and downs at last came into being in the year 1901. He became a member of its first Council, and for a period of ten years held the position of honorary treasurer. He was elected president in the year 1912, and the following year was again returned to office. In the latter year he was appointed president of the Blue Mountains Centenary Committee, which later on carried out to a successful conclusion the celebration of the first centenary of the first crossing of the Blue Mountains by Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth. This was practically the first centenary celebration in Australia, and showed the way to many similar functions in the succeeding years.

An ardent cyclist and photographer, Mr. Walker toured the greater part of New South Wales and Tasmania, collecting photographs and information concerning many of the then existing relics of the past which has been carefully tabulated and indexed for reference. 

In 1918, His Majesty the King was pleased to grant permission for the Society to use the prefix "Royal," and under this title it has since been known. Mr. Walker has been a prolific contributor to the press of articles on Australian history, and by means of lantern slides, of which he possesses some thousands, he has sought to spread further knowledge by public lectures in this and the neighboring States.

Always keenly interested in the development of Australia, commercially and other-wise, he has watched the growth and progress of the Federal Capital, Canberra, the site of which over twenty-four years ago he visited on the wheel, when there was nothing to indicate that this beautiful and well favored district would achieve the distinction which later years have brought it.

A very few of the original founders of the Historical Society, of which Mr. Walker is one, are left, the rest having crossed "The Great Divide," but their memory and the influence they exerted in the past still remain. Mr. Walker is still a member of the present Council, and hopes to be of much service yet to the Society before his time comes to make way for the rising generation.

From National Review, London, 1904. 

MR. FRANK WALKER, J P., F.R.A.H.S. (1927, January 17). The Federal Capital Pioneer Magazine (Canberra, ACT : 1926 - 1927), p. 27. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article66350942 

The Great North Road: An Historic Highway

By Frank Walker.

ALTHOUGH a span of nearly fifteen years separates the making of the Great North-road from that of the two other main highways, the western and southern, the completion of an alternative route to Newcastle other than by sea marked an important epoch in the history of New South Wales. It served two purposes; the first, in providing travellers with a means of access to the Hunter River district, without the consequent tedious sea journey that had hitherto been necessary, and the second, in opening up and drawing attention to the large areas of magnificent country so eminently suitable for cultivation, which lay along the route chosen. A considerable degree of uncertainty has existed with regard to the first and original route. '

 

BUSH SCENE, NEAR ROSEVILLE STATION.

The early New South Wales calendars, which, as a rule, contain itineraries of the various important roads of the then colony, either surveyed or open for traffic, present the information, in a manner, which, to our modern ideas, seems particularly confusing. The constant notices and references to side tracks, and the occasional abrupt termination of the descriptions of main routes, which start off again at the point they left off several pages farther on, is apt to tangle the present day seeker after knowledge in a hopeless maze, which he is lucky to emerge from and preserve his reason. Only by careful study and comparison, step by step, is order evolved out of chaos, and it is interesting at this lapse of time to try to imagine how strangers who took the calendar for their guide, philosopher, and friend, managed eventually to reach the point they were bound for, and escape the numberless perils and dangers which the interior of the country contained in these days. This is particularly the case with the route under notice, which, prior to 1823, was a veritable 'terra incognita,' beyond the settled districts to the north of Sydney. The country, too, for the most part, was wild and desolate. Even now, in the less inhabited regions, there .are wild and rugged precipices, dark and dismal ravines, where even the foot of a blackfellow has never trodden, and densely wooded heights, almost as inaccessible as the most desolate part of the Blue Mountains. Here, in the season, waratahs bloom unseen, and the gigantic lily luxuriates in the sandy crevices of the rocks. This wonderful plant grows in these localities to a height of 16 or 18 feet, and is of a rich crimson colour, some of the blooms measuring three or four feet in circumference. It is, however, becoming scarce, owing to the spread of population, but may still be met with in the more secluded parts of the ranges. 

WHEN, therefore, it was proposed to open up communication between the metropolis and the growing settlement at Maitland by means of a road, speculation was rife as to what this mysterious tract of country contained. The first overland journey from Newcastle to Sydney was made by Major Morrisett, 48th Regiment, on April 25, 1823. This officer was for some years commandant at Newcastle, and the severity of his rule and strict attention to discipline are matters of history. He was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel at a later period, and was once in charge of the settlement at Norfolk Island. After retiring from the ranks, he took up his residence at Bathurst, and, dying in 1852, was buried in the graveyard adjoining the Old Kelso Church, near Bathurst. No officer was better known in the western district. He had seen much service, and bore upon his face the traces of a wound received in action. At the time of his memorable journey in 1823. he was in the prime of life, and well suited to stand the fatigues of what proved a most arduous undertaking. Nine days were occupied in reaching Windsor, the country being described as excessively mountainous and wild, the distance traversed being 169 miles. Major Mitchell was ordered by Governor Darling to survey this track, and the first section, which reached to within six miles of Parramatta ferry, was opened in 1829. This route, via Pitt Town, is the one now traversed by the coaches from Windsor to Wiseman's Ferry. In 1832 another means of communication with the northern districts was opened by the formation of a road, which branched off the Parramatta-road at six and a quarter miles from Sydney, crossed the river by a punt, where Abbotsford now is, and, passing behind the site of Gladesville Asylum, continued on through Ryde and Pennant Hills, and eventually joined the first track at the twenty-fifth mile-post, the distance from Sydney to this point being 21 ¼ miles, thus effecting a saving in mileage. 

OLD WESLEYAN CHURCH, LYON'S ROAD, FIVE DOCK.

Still another track was formed a year or two later, which proves the antiquity of the highway on the northern side of the harbour, now known as the Gordon-road. The track commenced from Blue's Point (to-day the present road for some distance of its length is termed the Lane Coveroad), to which place there was communication by water from Dawe's Point, and generally followed about the same course as the present road. Crow's Nest Cottage is spoken of in the early calendars, and the residence of Provost-Marshal Gore, at Gore Hill, is mentioned, as, likewise, a grant of land belonging to Mr. Gore, which he named Artarmon. The present station on the Milson's Point line of railway perpetuates this name. A track leading to Pittwater, described as a pathway, occurs at eight and a quarter miles, which is exactly the distance of the present road to that locality. At 15.5 miles from the city what is described as the 'New North-road by the punt at Concord is reached.' The word 'Concord' is somewhat misleading, and is either a misprint or the present locality, now known as Abbotsfield, where the punt really was, may have been included in the district called by that name. Three miles further on the 'Great Northroad' is reached, thus giving an alternative route to and from Sydney, without passing through Parramatta or touching the Western road. 

THE original road, now known as the Glenorie-road, is not used except at rare intervals. He would be a courageous man who, knowing what lay before him after passing the village of Glenorie, would essay the task of driving over the 20 odd miles of deep sand, rough boulders, and cavernous ruts which now characterise this route. Tbe writer, not possessing the requisite knowledge at the time of the condition of the road, was venturesome enough to propel, or, rather, endeavour to propel, a bicycle over its forbidding surface, with the result that the greater portion of the distance had to be negotiated on foot willy-nilly. Five miles from Wiseman's Ferry this road junctions with the coach route, and the remainder of the distance to the river is all that could be desired. At the junction the attention of the traveller is drawn to a picturesque ruin, locally known as the 'haunted house.' Originally built of neatly squared courses of masonry, this habitation dates from the very earliest days, and was erected for the accommodation of a section of the military in charge of road gangs. THE present-day traveller over this route cannot fail to accord a note of admiration for the old road-makers when his eye takes in the stupendous work performed on the fashioning of the pass down the mountain to the village at Wiseman's Ferry. Splendidly graded, and of faultless surface, this section of roadway is at once an object-lesson 10 municipal and shire councils, and although in extenuation of local government failings the question of cheap and abundant labour bulks largely in any comparison of old and new methods, there are still profitable lessons to be learnt from these early-day achievements, and we should not be diffident in taking full advantage of them. 

COURT HOUSE CAVE, WISEMAN'S FERRY

The great stone embankments, which hold the road in position, as it were, between heaven and earth, extend far down into the valley, and though upwards of 80 years have elapsed since these stones were cut and placed in position, there is not the slightest sign of subsidence, and the work remains as firm and intact as the day it was completed. On the shoulder of the mountain, many feet above the road, a cleared space in the bush, covered with remains of stone buildings, mark the site of one of the numerous stockades that are scattered all over the district, and a natural cave, embellished with stone seats and a flight of steps leading up from the road, once served as a temporary "courthouse," in the days when buildings were scarce. From the platform of this cave a magnificent panorama of river and mountain scenery lies at the feet of the beholder, and the eye never tires of the beautiful prospect that opens out to the view. This particular scene should be one of our most treasured beauty spots. 

THE village of Wiseman's consists of about a score of buildings, but the Hawkesbury Inn— the original home of the celebrated Solomon Wiseman — dominates all others in point of size and historical interest. It is a strong, substantial building, constructed entirely of stone, and its oldfashioned, low-ceilinged rooms, queer, crooked stairways, and solid cedar appointments carry one instantly back Into the past. There are unexplored recesses, damp, dark, and mysterious beneath the building which have a tale of their own. An old stone stable, still wearing its ancient shingle roof, and half hidden by a gigantic Moreton Bay fig tree, is eloquent of the passing years, and hard-by a still older dwelling, now little more than a tumbled heap of stones, lies stranded on the 'shores of Time.' The grounds, which cover about an acre, are entirely surrounded by a stone and rubble wall, which, in itself, must have found work for 'unwilling hands extending over some considerable period. The road continues to the river a further half-mile, where a modern punt replaces the old wherry which did duty here for so many uneventful years. Again consulting the calendar we find that the original crossing was some considerable distance down stream, but the steep and dangerous grades rendered it unsafe, and in the early thirties the present track, which ascends to the summit of the range, some 4000 feet was made by a series of traverses on an easy grade, and effects a saving of nearly three miles. Here, again, the stone-work surface of roadway, the numerous culverts, and huge stone buttresses are a lasting monument to the skill of the early road engineers. Prom the top of the mountain there is a descent of some miles until the M'Donald River is reached, transit across being obtained by means of a punt. On the left side of the road near the river is a ruined stone church, open to the sky, and with window spaces, innocent of glass or frames. It stands a mute object of decay and ruin, and has remained in this condition for a great number of years. The road now follows the course of Mogo Creek for nearly nine miles, practically level, winding its serpentine way through a deep valley, the mountains here being densely wooded with steep, precipitous sides. The early itinerary of this road speaks of an inn kept by Mr. Richard Wiseman, at 858 miles from Sydney, or 354 from Wiseman's Ferry. There is now no habitation in this neighbourhood, all being wild bush, and what remained of the building has evidently been covered with undergrowth. With regard to Mogo Creek, which, as mentioned before, the road closely hugs, the original name was Sugarloaf Creek, but, as a matter of fact, the stream is properly speaking the Wollombi River, though at this point, and for several miles of its course, it could hardly be dignified by any other name than that of creek. At 964 miles from Sydney, 47 from the ferry, is the village of Wollombi. The calendar places this at 93 1/2 miles, but this reckoning is evidently made over the then new route. 

VIEW FROM MOUNTAIN PASS, WISEMAN'S FERRY.

WOLLOMBI is a pleasantly situated township, surrounded by mountains on every side, but the one the road approaches, though some considerable hill-climbing is necessary, some miles distant, ere the more level ground is reached. A road branches off in a north-easterly direction, passing through the township of Broke to the present town of Singleton. This road was in existence prior to 1834, as the calendar refers to it in this wise: — ' . . . the great north road continues down the valley of the Wollombi, reaching the reserve of Broke, where the road, after following this romantic valley nearly twenty miles, at length reaches the open country watered by the Hunter.' 

One of the Blaxland family possessed a sheep and cattle station near this road, but some miles beyond Wollombi; and the Rev. Richard Hill, a noted clergyman, whose name is closely identified with the early history of New South Wales, also owned an estate, which was named Milbro Dale, in this locality. Continuing the main route to West Maitland, an ideal road is met with, of excellent surface almost the whole distance. The country adjacent is still mountainous, and in the early days provided large quantities of cedar, rosewood, etc., many of the former trees being of magnificent growth. The pasturage even now Is luxuriant beyond belief, and prosperous homesteads are met with every few miles. At 72 miles from the ferry the comparatively young but vigorous township of Cessnock, a busy mining centre, has sprung into existence, and, judging by the strides it has made during a two years' absence the writer was surprised to see what a number of buildings had been added in that time. It bids fair to become one of the more important northern towns of the future. The road now continues in a north-easterly direction, passing through several old settlements, and joins the Maitland-Singleton road near the former township. The area of flat country on each side of the Hunter River in this locality was originally known as Wallis Plains, after Captain Wallis, who was commandant at Newcastle in the year 1818. This officer is credited with the founding of Christ Church, Newcastle, in which he held services when the incumbent was absent, a matter of frequent occurrence, since there were so few clergymen at that time in New South Wales. On these plains the towns of East and West Maitland were built, the first buildings dating from about the year 1827. In 1833 the entire population of the Hunter River district was about 2000, and in this year 16 or 17 cases on one occasion were awaiting trial at the assizes, plainly indicating the lawless state of the times, and the severity of rule that held sway. Many of the early pioneers — men who have left their mark on the records of ,this State, were closely identified with the town and district, and the numerous old-fashioned country residences in this neighbourhood, where they resided and founded families, and whose sons are still carrying on the work their fathers begun— are landmarks, whose importance cannot be questioned. The remaining distance to Newcastle, 20 miles, is now, more or less, thickly populated along the route which runs from Maitland in a south-easterly direction, and, approaching the Hunter River at Hexham, follows the right bank of that stream, until It finally enters the thriving and prosperous city of Newcastle, the total distance from Sydney, following the route described, being 149 ¼  miles. 

ST. ANNE'S CHURCH, RYDE.

The Great North Road: An Historic Highway. (1911, December 20). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 35. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article164330841 

Motoring
Less Than an Hour from the G.P.O.
Sydney Beauty Spots for Afternoon Picnics

In the height of summer the beaches close lo the metropolis naturally make the strongest appeal to those motorists who have a few hours to spend on pleasure, but the fact is sometimes overlooked that within a few miles of the centre of the city there are many delightful resorts where, seen in the middle of winter, a happy afternoon can be passed in most pleasant and secluded surroundings. By 'Spotlight. '

...

Above Fuller's Bridge 

LET us set a liberal outward time limit of an hour and talk of some of the scenic charms which still, so far as a majority of motoring bushlovers are concerned, bush unseen within a few miles of the G.P.O. The toll at the Harbour Bridge is the last commercial transaction to mar the mellow afternoon; shops, old cottages, and bijou residences with 'every mod. conv.' flit by as we hasten to Chatswood, and a few hundred yards beyond its large Public school turn to the left into Fuller's-road. Within a minute or two suburbia begins to merge with the woodlands of the Upper Lane Cove, the picturesque rifle range runs almost parallel with the road on the right, and soon we reach Fuller's Bridge. A sorry itinerary, you might say, knowing that a cemetery and crematorium are the next points of interest on this route. But bear right-handed with us just before the approach to the bridge, and be confident that there are better things in store. A quarter of a mile of careful driving beside a picturesque tidal creek dotted with mangroves and bordered with she-oaks works a mighty transformation. We have buried the jangling city, and a world (albeit a very small one) of valley and forest is our oyster, to be opened leisurely along with the picnic hamper. Looking back, we feel but for the lack of a mountain nip in the air that we might be hundreds of miles from the city and traffic courts. There is an undulating sweep of green fields; in the background is a tree -clustered, sharp hill. Shapely old pear trees dot the foreground, and to complete the picture is a little homestead, whose steeply-sloped roof might have been designed to throw off the snows of the Monaro or the chill lakelands of Tasmania. Here, doubtless, the psychologist would tell us, is the ideal point at which to manipulate our mental circuits, and with a dwindling recollection of the roar of trams and crowded counters say 'good-bye to all that.' At least, the experiment is worth a trial. 

Lady game Drive 

THEN the road, the Lady Game Drive, meet souvenir of one who took the keenest pleasure in the beauties of our country, bears to the left, and, crossing a culvert, begins to climb uphill. Through a winding avenue of trees and native shrubs it threads its uneven way, and the driver will perforce at times drop down to a crawl when deep gutters and pot-holes loom ahead; but the short trip is well worth such small discomforts, and before we have had time to worry about the bumps we come out from the woods on to the open slopes, where, to the south-west, is a panorama reminiscent of England, and so throw off the spell of remoteness, and speeding up Fidden's Wharf-road rejoin the Pacific Highway at Killara. But the afternoon is still young, and before striking off towards the coast there is ample time to make a few more promising deviations from the beaten paths. So, taking our due place in the Saturday afternoon procession, we plod along the main highway as far as Turramurra, and then, at the first turning left after crossing the railway bridge, take a silent farewell of fellow-motorists who are confirmed lovers of concrete and bitumen and branch off downhill into Kissing Point-road. Several legends are extant as to the reasons for the name bestowed on that road, but historical research is no part of a cheerful, forgetful drive, and we are content to know that after two and a half miles of easy descent we shall reach a deadend, where the hills with their overhanging sandstone rocks and caves gather together, and below us the many small tree-clad creeks which feed the headwaters of the Lane Cove River have banded together in a cool, silent gully to form a constant stream with deep pools and rocks that invite the sunbaker. Well might one spend half an hour in wandering in this wilderness where flannel flowers and other bush plants have escaped the hands of marauders, and all is peace. 

A Forest and a Bush Road 

BUT if the itch to travel is persistent and time begins to hang heavy, we can make tracks back through Turramurra to St. Ives, turning into Telegraph -road, which is on the left at the crest of the hill above Pymble Railway Station. In less than a mile that street debouches on to the Pittwater-road, and before reaching St. Ives, which lies about another mile beyond, the Dalrymple-Hay Forest looms up on the right. The glades of that preserve are inviting on a hot day, and from the near-by lookout is a magnificent view of parts of French's Forest and the Heads, with, to the right, a glimpse of the Harbour Bridge to remind us that town and black care still 'sit on the crupper.' And so St. Ives, with its avenue of sombre pines and its worked-out and well-tilled orchards. 

The hours have flown by on winged feet, but there is still time to probe the arterial road from that township to Gordon, a pretty, winding route, beloved of equestrians Sydney Beauty Spots for A her noon Picnics (Concluded from Opposite Page.) Here, if energy triumphs over sloth, the car can be parked at some wide bend, and a short 'hike' will take the wanderer through rough country to shady valleys or lofty vantage points, and once again he will have succeeded, in the best sense, in burying himself for a brief space. But those who shrink from such exertions and want to 'do' as many places as possible, can round off the day by a trip to the Oxford Palls, in French's Forest. An easy approach is through Roseville to the bridge over Middle Harbour, in Roseville Chase, and thence up hill to the crossroads, where the right-hand branch is taken. Within a minute or two turn left, and do not follow the better road straight ahead, which leads past the brickworks. Continuing for about a mile and a half, a signboard 'Oxford Falls,' will be seen on the left, and here we turn off, and pursuing a rather bumpy downhill track reach the falls, near which are several small holdings, in less than two miles. Here we must 'call it a day,' and leave the tourist to find his own way home wards, with the suggestion that a dip in the surf at Manly might be a good tonic for dinner, and with the hope that by this shallow scratching of a wide field of beauty spots busy and fatigued motorists who seek complete relaxation will be encouraged to appreciate the less spectacular, but delightful, scenery which lies at their thresholds, and in so doing find an escape from the humdrum round of life.

Motoring (1935, March 6). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 44. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article166110179 

Speeding in the Wake of Governor Phillip

By ' Spotlight '

THERE is bustle along the coastline of golden beaches and grassy headlands; a chatter of excited  aborigines. Even the black swans on Deewhy Lagoon sense that something is amiss and raise their long necks from probing the tempting shallows. Off-shore, dancing along in a following breeze, are two small open boats, and at the tiller of one is a man of enterprise, who has left his mark on the map of Australia. There at the helm sits Phillip, first Governor of the new colony, a real pioneer, who does not let his high office and the dictatorial power which he commands in an outpost of Empire restrain his innate energy to be up and doing and to see things for himself. Nearly a score of years before Cook had marked on the charts to the north of Port Jackson 'broken land, which appeared to form a bay.' Now Phillip, With the duties of office heavy upon him, and but a few weeks after he had, on his own responsibility moved the First Fleet from Botany Bay to what is to-day Sydney, has founded the infant colony, set everything in good running order, and, without breathing space, undertaken a reconnaissance by sea that few yachtsmen would envy. No decked, ocean-going launch or pleasure schooner for him. A long-boat and a cutter clear the Heads and venture north into the blue. 

MARCH 2; 1788, is the day logged as the start of this exploit, and that night the party slept in the boats, in the lee of a rocky point, 'as the natives, though friendly, appeared to be numerous.' One can picture the pow-pows round many a seashore fire while shellfish roast in the embers. The natives are fretful. 'Who are these intruders? What do they seek?' At dawn Phillip sailed on. He found the scenic glories of the Hawkesbury estuary, named one of its finest reaches after William Pitt the younger, and 'returned in safety to enjoy the blessings of the land.' Pittwater became a name on the chart. Another haven in a new, rich land had been discovered, and there we may leave this energetic first representative of the Throne in these latitudes with the grateful recollection of one whose spontaneous energy had a share in the revealing of a lovely stretch of playground at the threshold of the city. In that tract beaches, golf , links, still bays, and surviving patches of virgin bush now beckon the jaded toiler of the town. Phillip has gone, but his name lives in the archives, and the natives flustered at his coming have left a message for the new race in the weathered rock carvings and kitchen middens which the hurrying motorist might often forget when speeding to the allurements of Manly, Newport, Palm Beach, or the fastnesses of French's Forest. The original inhabitants have been spared the shattering of their peace by an endless stream of cars, the 'improvement' of their lands, and the new 'Spooner' costumes which next season are to make the beaches safer for democracy. Peace be with them! 

THE light fades, the endless film of history flicks through the years. Switching on at the 'sixties,' Barrenjoey, aforetime 'Barrenjuey,' is cast on the screen. There is no lighthouse as yet, but Phillip's verdict on that sequestered port has been appreciated by his successors. The Customs House nestling in the shelter of the abrupt headland which overtops the sandy isthmus is mute testimony that rumrunners and others have found the Hawkesbury a convenient, if not official, port of entry. Nowadays those who walk, sometimes optimistically carrying fishing-rods, from the end of the golf links road to the headland can capture something of the good old days, although the fish elude their wiles. They can see in the sandhills at the feet of the dark, timbered cliffs buildings which once housed the revenue-men. It is a thin slice of Cornwall in its heyday cast to the other side of the globe.

Picture, too, the pilgrimages of those travellers whose vessels, forced to shelter in Pittwater, preferred, as history records, to tramp through the bush to Middle Harbour rather than await the relenting of the elements. Barrenjoey is a highlight of colonial -history in that the old days still seem to linger there. When the nor'-easter blows in summer and the well-fed tourist takes his after-dinner nap in the warm hollow of a sheltering sandhill he might in his dreams see sudden alarums and excursions, the quick manning of the revenue cutter, a few shots at random, and perhaps the sail of a successful smuggler fading into the evening. If, as some romantics have said, all places are redolent of their history, the half-waking dreamer will glimpse the venerable lighthouse, now 'automatic,' and in his reveries hark back to the day in 1880 when a light 'of the second order dioptric' first shed its beams over that little patch of the Pacific. He will see the life of the early keepers of the lamp, the death by lightning of one whose tombstone on the scene of his labours bears an epitaph concluding: — 'I, too, in haste was called away; Repent; repent without delay!' 

'Three o'clock; time for another round.' 

A heartless friend breaks the spell, and reluctantly we are astir, and stroll back to the short, but picturesque, Palm Beach course. TO those whose week-ends are sometimes so strenuous that they welcome Monday's toil we would say, 'Give the round trip to Barrenjoey a trial.' There are temptations all along the route; some of them are indicated in the accompanying map, and few, if any, cities could boast of such a glorious variety of unspoilt scenery within a few miles of its hub. The itinerary illustrated is offered as a quick tonic. The chart might be amplified by a few explanations. Between Avalon and Palm Beach is a deviation coastwards to the Hole in the Wall. The car can be driven on the billowy turf to the very edge of the cliffs, and thence is a rough, formidable track which might have been made by mountain goats to the seaward cave. The cliffs overhang menacingly; there are signs of many a landslide, and with a quick scramble the narrow entrance to the wide and sombre cavern is reached. Running at brisk speed over the return route we turn off inquisitively to the ruined powder works. (See map.) Summer or winter, here is a warm, sheltered spot for picnickers. Pine trees flanked by a high natural hedge of 'bottle-brushes,' mellowed stonework, gill birds (a most palatable food en casserole) by the dozens, chortling, as it seems, 'This country is an animal sanctuary,' and with it all still the pervading spirit of the days that have been. IT was very proper that an establishment where high explosives were to be manufactured should be far removed from peopled districts. Its sponsor felt, doubtless, that at any minute it might go into smoke, even as he is said to have done. Carl von Beiren was pursued by the Law and was accused of fraudulent practices, but his virtues and demerits have no place here. Suffice it to say that in French's Forest he has left, a stone-throw from the main road between St. Ives and Mona Vale, and a little east of the turn-off to Elanora golf links, a still enduring monument to his efforts. There it is graven that in 1884 he set out to build Ingleside House, now a razed ruin, and a neatly chiselled powder cask surmounting the inscription, 'Advance Australia,' proclaims his good intentions. The sun is sinking; the western glare has gone. A fine day closes — and so to Sydney. 

MOTORING Speeding in the Wake of Governor Phillip (1935, August 21).Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 49. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article160500014 

A TREE SANCTUARY! In the Dalrymple Hay Forest Reserve, Pymble. Community Quilts (1933, December 27).Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 48. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article165961981 

FOREST RESERVE WANTED

MOVE TO RETAIN AREA AT PYMBLE

Ald. W. Creswell O'Reilly will preside at a meeting In the Killara Memorial Hall next Thursday, when an appeal will be made for contributions to preserve portion of the Dalrymple-Hay forest at Pymble, which is to be subdivided. This forest is the last remaining portion of the original Cumberland forest. Crossed cheques made payable to the Dalrymple-Hay: Forest Preservation Fund may be sent to the Rangers' League, Box 3607S., G.P.O., Sydney, or Mr. Chas. R. Barton, Barton and Co., 7 Macquarie-place, Sydney. The total area of the forest is 50 acres. The southern section, of 26½ acres, was resumed in 1925 by the Government as a State forest, while the now privately owned northern section comprises 29½ acres. FOREST RESERVE WANTED (1934, March 11). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 17. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230547085 

PYMBLE FOREST 

Mrs. A. F. Wyatt and Mr. F. T. Berman (joint hon. secretaries of the Dalrymple-Hay Forest Preservation Committee) write:— The committee wishes to express its appreciation of your valuable paper's assistance in giving such splendid publicity to the movement to save the Pymble (Brown's) Forest or so much of it as is available to our committee under an option to purchase. Unfortunately, though the whole area of 56 acres was resumed by the Crown in 1925 and dedicated as a State forest reserve, half of it was allowed to revert to the owners in 1931. If this unique belt of natural forest is to be saved for all time, funds must be speedily forthcoming. The Wild Life Preservation Society gave outright 25 guineas, but also guaranteed a similar amount in addition, should It prove necessary, rather than see the area lost to the public. Donations may be forwarded to the hon. treasurers, care of Mr. Chas. R. Barton (the organiser of the present movement), 5 Macquarie-place, Sydney. A BUNDLE OF LETTERS (1934, May 11).The Sun(Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 11 (FINAL EXTRA). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article229202395 

OPEN TO PUBLIC

Dalrymple-Hay Forest

The Dalrymple-Hay forest, Pittwater-road, Pymble, is now open to the public. This 11 ½ acres, with the adjoining 26 acres held by the Forestry Commission, is now a forest reserve. Arrangements are now in hand for a scheme of joint management, for the removal of certain noxious growths from the areas and for the erecting of notice boards. OPEN TO PUBLIC (1934, September 12).The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), p. 16 (LAST RACE EDITION). Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article230325887 

Forest Reserve Near Pymble

THE Dalrymple-Hay forest reserve, beside the Pittwater road between Pymble and St. Ives, is now open to the public. Cars may be parked inside the entrance. It is very gratifying that after many difficulties this fine area of native timber should have been secured for the enjoyment of the public, and motorists who have not visited the forest will be astonished at the beauty of the surroundings and the peace and quiet of this delightful spot, which is within half an hour's run of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Forest Reserve Near Pymble (1934, September 19). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), p. 44. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article166108124 

WILD FLOWERS AND NATIVE PLANTS PROTECTION ACT, 1927. Appointment of Honorary Rangers. THE undermentioned persons have been appointed as Honorary Hangers in pursuance of the provision of the Wild Flowers and Native Plants Protection Act, 1927: - 

Ivor Bertie Wyatt, Esq., 26 Park-avenue, Gordon. Mrs. Annie Forsyth Wyatt, 26 Park-avenue, Gordon. (L.G. 1934-S. 3,915)… WILD FLOWERS AND NATIVE PLANTS PROTECTION ACT, 1927. (1934, October 12). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 3698. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223066411 

Visit: Annie Wyatt Reserve: Palm Beach - Pittwater Fields of Dreams II

Mona Vale Public School Plants 140 Trees In Three Streets

ONE hundred and forty Bottle Brush trees were planted at Mona Vale on August 11, when Arbor Day was celebrated at Mona Vale School.

The trees were planted in Narrabeen, Waratah and Park streets, which surround the school, at which 148 students have become tree wardens.

The tree planting was arranged by the schoolmaster, Mr. Daly with the co-operation of the Parents and Citizens' Association. ;

- The P. &. C. and school children bought most of the treelings from the Forestry Department, the Department giving the remainder. 

Mr. Daly addressed the gathering of children, parents and visitors, after which Mr., Austin, inspector of schools, Mr. Asian; M.L.A., and Mr. Watson, of the Naturalist: Society, addressed the large gathering.

All spoke of the great value of trees to the individual, the community, and the nation, and urged the growing, care, and protection of trees.

Trees were living things of beauty and great usefulness, and every effort should be made to save them from damage and destruction, the speakers said. 

The young trees were distributed among the visitors, children and members of the Parents and Citizens' Association who moved to positions in the three streets where the treelings were planted.

Other visitors included members of the N.S.W. Town Planning Association (Mr. and Mrs. B. W. Ford), the president of Warringah Shire Council(Mr. R. Kent),- a member of the Forestry Advisory Committee (Mr.Turner), the secretary of Pittwater R.S.L. (Mr. Bimsan), Mrs. Ingleton, representing the Mona Vale Community League, and Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Collins.

The president of the P. and C. Association (Mrs. K. Batten) assisted by the secretary (Mrs. O. Anderson)entertained the visitors at lunch, while the school children provided a bright concert programme, which included Master Ted Budge's vocal solo, "Trees."

Visitors paid tributes to the school staff, P. and C. members, and all who assisted in the tree planting and entertainment. MONA VALVE SCHOOL PLANTS 140 TREES IN 3 STREETS. (1950, August 25). The Land (Sydney, NSW : 1911 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article105713567

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919

THE LATE MRS. E. FOX

The death of Mrs. Annie Fox, wife of the Rev. E. Fox, occurred at the Presbyterian Manse, Wynnum South on 4th instant. at the age of 76 years. The late Mrs Fox was the oldest daughter of the late Mr. James Terrey of Sydney and a sister of the late Dr Caleb Terrey, of Sydney. Five sons and one daughter of the late Mrs. Fox are at present practising the medical profession - Dr Arthur at Charleville, Dr Hedley at Sydney, Dr Harold in the United Kingdom, Dr Norman at Ardlethan (New South Wales), Dr. Otho at Ariah Park (New South Wales) and Dr Millicent in England. Another daughter, Dr Edith Fox, died at Toogoolawah some 18 months ago. Another daughter is Mrs Bowler of Sydney.

Prior to the departure of the cortege for the Bulimba Cemetery on Saturday afternoon a service was conducted at the Wynnum and Manly Presbyterian Church by the Rev James Gibson M.A. (of Norman Park Church) The Moderator of the Presbyterian General Assembly (the Rev M. Henderson, M.A. ) in an impressive address alluded to the many sterling qualities of the late Mrs Fox. In the ten years he had known Mrs Fox, he said, many opportunities occurred to convince him of the splendid helpmate she had been to her husband in his church work for 49½years. Mrs Fox had been a good wife and a splendid mother to the children, who had grown up and made a place at the top of the tree. The Rev James Muir also took part in the service. The pall bearers were Messrs W. Cartshore, Allan Hunter, W H Brown, C. N. Ferris and W. Bell. At the graveside the service was conducted by the Rev Gibson and the Rev A. MacKillop, while other ministers present were the Revs W. C. Radcliffe, B.A., D. Brown, James Walker, M.A., B. D., A. Duff and G. Parker. The church elders were represented by Messrs W. Bell, Cartshore and Hunter and the committee of management by Messrs C. N Ferris, W. H. Brown, R. W. Rae-burn, R. Allison, J. Crichton, H. V. Adams, J Antill, sen., and J. F. Seib.

Letters and telegrams of sympathy were received from Mr Lance Bowler (Sydney), Arthur Terrey (Charleville), Mrs Ethel Bowler (Sydney), Dr Norman Fox, Mr and Mrs McKenzie (Sydney), the Stevenson family (New Farm), Dr Hedley Fox, Mr Alex Terrey (Sydney), Mr and Mrs F. Barton, Mr C. Dunlop, the Revs R. Millar, M. Henderson and H. Robertson.

At the conclusion of the service the grave was covered with many beautiful floral tributes, the senders including Dr Arthur and Mrs Fox, Dr Harold and Mrs Fox, office bearers and congregation Wynnum and Manly Presbyterian Church Women's Guild, Choir, Superintendent and teachers Wynnum South Sunday School, Young Men's Club Wynnum North Presbyterian Church and Sunday School, members of the British Israel Association, Mr and Mrs W. H. Barnes. Mr and Mrs Beck-man and family, Mr and Mrs Bell, Mr and Mrs C. Dunlop and family, Mr E. E. and Miss Dulcie Sneyd, Mr and Mrs Allan Hunter, Mr and Mrs W. J. Gil- bert, Mr and Mrs Edmunds, Mr and Mrs T. A. Jackson, Mr and Mrs Mathie and family. The funeral arrangements were conducted by J. B. Lewis' motor service at Wynnum South. THE LATE MRS. E. FOX. (1926, February 8). The Brisbane Courier (Qld. : 1864 - 1933), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21005298 

AFTER FIFTY YEARS

REV. E. FOX RETIRES nine years at Wynnum

"I feel that I want to rest; I think I have earned it.” were the concluding remarks of Rev. E. Fox, of the Wynnum and Manly Presbyterian Church in an interview with a "Daily Mall" representative.

Mr. Fox was referring to his pending retirement from active church work. He has tendered his resignation, which will take effect this week. Coincident with his retirement, Mr. Fox will have completed 50 years' continuous service. With advancing years, long and close application to his duties, and the recent death of his wife, Mr. Fox is feeling the strain of his active ministry. Born in Bradford, Yorkshire, in 1852, the son of a tradesman, Mr. Ebenezer Fox came to Australia with his parents when he was only four years of age. He therefore looks on himself us a good Australian.

ACTIVE MINISTRY. 

Educated at a Sydney public school and subsequently at Newington College, Mr. Fox decided to enter the Church and in 1876 he was ordained as a Wesleyan minister. His first appointment was as a missionary at the Friendly Islands, but he stayed there only two years owing to his wife's health being seriously affected by the climate. He was then appointed to Molong, in New South Wales, and later filled the stations at Hay, Macleay River, Coutamundra, Balmain, and other places. After being associated with the Wesleyan Church 31 years Mr. Fox decided to join the Presbyterian ministry. He was minister at Narrnmino and Blackheath before coming to Wynnum, about nine years ago. When he arrived there the Presbyterian congregation met in a small church in Chestnut-street. This building was subsequently purchased by the Roman Catholic Church, and is now a part of some of the buildings on the land occupied by the convcent. A block of land was under offer to the Presbyterians on Bay-terrace, almost, opposite the School of Arts. The purchasing price was £360, and the congregation had only £34 to its credit. Mr. Fox called his people together, and as a result of his appeal sufficient money was promised at the meeting to close the deal. Since then a large hall, used ns a temporary church, and recently added to for evening classes and a manse, have been erected. In addition land has been purchased, and a small church erected at Wynnum North. Over £3000 has been spent in laud and church buildings during, Mr. Fox's ministry. The church also owns a fine block of land on the opposite corner to the School of Arts. This laud was presented by Mr. W. R. Black. The church will be erected here. 

FAMILY OF DOCTORS. 

Mr. Fox, in 1876 was married to Miss Annie Terrey daughter of Mr. James Terrey, of Sydney. Five sons and three daughters were the issue of the marriage. All the sons and two daughters adopted the medical profession and are practising in different parts, with the exception of one daughter, who died. The third daughter became a trained nurse and now lives in Sydney. It is with her Mr. For hopes to spend a six months' rest, when possibly he will visit England to see one of his sons. With Mrs. Fox he visited the Wembley Exhibition. While in England Mrs. Fox contracted influenza, and suffering a relapse was an invalid for over 12 months. She died on February 4 of this year. As a preacher and administrator, Mr. Fox had very definite views, and did not hesitate to give expression to them at , whatever cost. Yet he has always retained the confidence and affection of his people. "It is a strain, he said to "The Daily Mail" representative, "to leave them, and my message to them, is one of love and gratitude for the support they have been to me, co-operating heartily and at considerable sacrifice to I themselves whenever the call was made."

REV. E. FOX.

AFTER FIFTY YEARS (1926, March 30).The Daily Mail (Brisbane, Qld. : 1903 - 1926), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220644310

RECEPTION AT PICKWICK CLUB

LEADING SIGNALMAN ARTHUR WATSON TERREY, R.A.N., of H.M.A.S. Quickmatch, and his bride, formerly Nancy Donnelley, at the reception at the Pickwick Club after their wedding last night at All Saints', Woollahra. 

RECEPTION AT PICKWICK CLUB (1946, February 27). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1931 - 1954), p. 18. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article248468981

NEW NORTH ROAD.

BY a notice published in the Government Gazette on the 11th of last month, it appears that ferries have been established on the new line of road from Sydney to Maitland by way of Brisbane Water. We are informed that about ten days ago an officer of the Government passed over the Wollombi to examine a line of road, for the opening of which the inhabitants of the Wollombi district had forwarded a memorial to the Government. 

This road commences at a point on the North Shore of Port Jackson, exactly opposite the north end of Macquarie-street, whence it passes through St. Leonard's, and along what is called the Lane Cove Road, to a farm belonging to Mr. Aaron Pearce, where it branches off, keeping the range between Berowra and Cowan Creeks by a well beaten road, leaving a small farm called the "Old Man's Valley" on the left to a tree known in the neighbourhood as the Cowan tree - the word "COWAN" being engraved on its bark. Within a few yards of the Cowan tree a beautiful avenue has been opened through a forest of tall straight trees for about a mile and a half, where gnarled gumtrees, honeysuckles, and stunted scrub, present themselves, growing on the wild sandstone range. About five miles beyond the Cowan-tree, a small open flat sprinkled with oak trees occurs. The road continues thence along the division of the waters of Berowra and Cowan, showing deep gulleys on each side, with high mountains in the distance to the left, the short lateral spurs exhibiting such rugged features as to prevent the possibility of deviating from the leading ridge, which, at about six miles from Pearce's, becomes very level, and at the seventh declines into a saddle-back, where are the remains of a camp. The remains consist of a horse trough formed of the hollow trunk of a tree, a little beyond which, and close to a rocky water hole is a rude bark hut. Three miles further the ground breaks towards the Hawkesbury and coast, and some engineering is requisite to case the ascent of a steepish hill. About half a mile beyond this is another saddle back, short and sharp, but which may be eased by working round. Thence to the Hawkesbury (where a succession of beautiful views present them-selves) the road, which has been cleared, merely requires trimming. The descent to the river continues along a narrow rocky fea-ture, until a sharp turn round a rock leads over a piece of masonry constructed to clear a deep and rugged gully. The road then passes at the foot of a wall of rock upwards of a hundred feet high, and reaches by a very gradual descent the ferry at Kangaroo Point.

The ferryboat belonging to Mr. Peat (an old settler whose house stands on the opposite bank of the river) is capable of taking six horses.

A long narrow neck of mountain ground between Mooney Mooney and Papran Creeks, is the commencement of the line from the Hawkesbury to Wollombi. The ascent up this neck is the chief labour required in the formation of the road, there being no difficulties on any part of the line. From the top of the hill above Peat's, the direction of the wood is defined by the course of the range, which (though somewhat tortuous) it keeps for about fifteen miles, where it passes over a bluff mass of rock, which re-quires to be reduced by blasting. About two miles beyond this point, and at a low, tame, feature, in a thick scrub, a tree is marked on a part bared of its bark WATER with RM and anchor under, denoting thereby, that a safe place of anchorage is near. From this point the ground ascends gradually towards two remarkable rocky knolls reminding one of "Los dos Aripiles," of the celebrated battle field of Salamanca, and which are as important as a key to the road as those of Spain were to the military position. Keeping close under these remarkable points, the road leads over a small water course dropping towards Papran, then passes through a thick scrub to the crest of the range, which soon becomes very open-commanding extensive views on both sides. To the north-east, Warrawolong towers over all the subordinate ranges heading the Wollombi Brook. To the north-west Yengo occasionally shows the whole of its form through the foliage, and serves as a guide in selecting the track by which to keep the leading range. There are, however, some delusive patches of open ground; the temptation to follow these must be resisted, as they almost invariably lead into gullies; it must therefore ever be borne in mind that the range is the road.

At about six miles beyond the Aripiles is a singular out-crop of trap from among the sandstone country: the land which rests upon it is of the richest description, thickly clothed with grass, and with standing timber, of girth, height, and straightness, rarely to be met with in this part of the country. The extent of this rich land is however very limited, and the road continues as before, along the top of the same range, which near the trap country (Warre Warren) throws off the waters eastward to Aurimbah Creek, and thence to Tuggurah Beach Lagoon-those on the west side falling into Mangrove Creek. Following the range between the heads of those creeks and the Wollombi, (the general bearing of Warrawolong and Yengo, being nearly as before, making allowance for distance,) the line strikes the road from Wise-man's (Lower Portland Head) to Wollombi, at a small stone bridge about four miles on the Sydney side of McDonald's Flat. Fifteen miles of the best part of the Wollombi Road completes the distance.

Several gentlemen have travelled the line referred to, and represent it to be free from any serious difficulties. A road party was a short time ago employed upon the first part of it, but suddenly withdrawn. Why this was done we are at a loss to imagine, for it opens a direct road from Sydney to a most important district. NEW NORTH ROAD. (1848, March 8). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 2. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article12898008 

THE LANE COVE HOAD.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD.

Sir,--I desire, through the medium of your columns, to draw public attention to the hardships now endured by the residents of the North Willoughby and Lane Cove districts through the disgraceful state of the main road within the municipality of St. Leonards. At the present time, the road from the point known as the Crow's Nest to the School of Arts is in a most dangerous state-indeed it is in matter of fact that, without driving on the (so called) footpaths, it is impossible to get along. Nothing, however, is done in the way of repair to the road, save by throwing largo boulders of stone into the holes and leaving them to be broken up by the cartwheels passing over them, then by causing danger to life and limb. The poor people of the Lane Cove district are put to serious loss by the existing state of things-those who come from the remoter parts having to start at 1 or 2 o'olock in the morning with wood or fruit to enable them to be in Sydney in the early part of the day ; they are subjected to the annoyance of having to pay two tolls on the one rood, and than not be able to travel without danger. Only yesterday I heard of a case where a horse and cart had to be dug out of the mud. I do think it is time that something was done towards remedy-ing this state of affairs. The main road from Milson's Point should be taken over by the Government, and a Road Trust appointed to manage it. I consider the several Municipalities concerned should not have taken the road over in the first instance. I do hope the Mayor and Corporation of the Borough of St. Leonards, who are the persons most to blame, will set to work at once towards doing something to help the poor hard-working residents of the above districts, by giving them a road fit to travel upon. 

EDWARD STACK.

THE LANE COVE ROAD. (1874, July 29).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13341666 

ROAD AT NORTH SHORE.

Introduced by Mr. Withers, M L A , a deputation consisting of Mr. B O Holtermann, M LA, and Messrs. Edward, Knapp, and Harris waited on the Hon the Minister for Mines yesterday, to ask that the Government would contribute £100 for the resumption of land for a road on the Lane Cove Road, and running eastward through what is known as Clayton’s ground. It was represented that this £100 was only half the value of the land in question and that the present owner, Mr Mackintosh, was willing to forgo the other £100. The road would connect two roads already in existence and would give people egress and ingress to lands which were now practically locked up. Mr. J. P. Abbott, in reply, said that he had already called for a report in regard to this road, and that it had not yet been sent in. He was inclined to meet the wish of the deputation, but he could not speak positively until he saw the report, and so he could only say that he would communicate his decision to them in a week or 10 days. The deputation thanked him and withdrew. ROAD AT NORTH SHORE. (1883, March 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13530449 

The North Shore Bridge.

The correspondence with Mr. Garbett, which Mr. Lackey promised to give, has been furnished by his successor. The late Ministry while they undoubtedly encouraged the concessionaire, did not in any way commit the country to the venture. They committed themselves, and certainly would have been bound in honour to support the project when it came before Parliament, and we are left to conjecture how far they would have used their political influence to back up the scheme. When we remember what they did to force the Milburn Creek vote through the House, we are justified in feeling that we have had a lucky escape. The first thing to be said about a bridge to North Shore is to discuss whether it is a proper work to be undertaken at all. It would be a very gigantic work, something like the bridge between Brooklyn and New York, though perhaps with more difficulty about foundations. We have seen in the cases of the Iron Cove and Parramatta River bridges, how very uncertain the rock bottom of our harbour is, and what great difficulty there is in getting to a trustworthy foundation. The borings show that we shall have still greater difficulties to deal with in the Hawkesbury River, and we may have some trouble with the George's River. What the bottom is between Dawes' Point and North Shore nobody knows, for no attempts have been made to ascertain, and to attempt to fix the cost of a bridge till this is known is all gueBs work. Mr. Bennett, the Commissioner for Roads and Bridges, thinks that there would be great objections to putting piers in the fairway even if there should be no trouble about the foundations, and says that if there is to be a bridge at all the least objectionable plan would be to have a clear span. But this would necessitate a wire suspension bridge, which is not a very desirable kind to carry a railway. The Brooklyn bridge, which is 100 feet longer than ours need be, will cost nearly two millions. It has been seven years in hand, and is not finished yet, and from recent advices it has already been complained of as 10 feet too low. Mr. Bennett's opinion is that such a bridge would be unsightly, would j be liable to injury from an enemy or an earthquake, and would only partially supersede an effective ferry service, while its cost of maintenance would be quite equal to that of keeping up an effective ferry. Looking at the question all round, therefore, the Government professional adviser strongly condemned the project. From no quarter did the Government receive any favourable advice from its professional subordinates, and under such circumstances the proper course would have been to have taken borings and sent the whole question to England or America, to be submitted to competent engineers, who could advise on the subject, and who might, perhaps, have overruled the opinions of the local engineers. But nothing of the sort was done, Mr. Garbett makes an offer, which is provisionally accepted. There is no proof asked or offered that he is in connection with competent capitalists or engineers. What he was to get was a sort of sporting concession, which he could carry in his pocket to England, and hawk about amongst speculative contractors. We can hardly imagine that Parliament, if not put under pressure, would have given its approval to any such bill as it would have been necessary to pass. But it is impossible to say how easy Parliament might have been under Ministerial blandishment. It has been disclosed that a reputable firm in England has offered- to make a bridge for far less than the sum named by Mr. Gasbett. This is sufficient to show that competition is to be had if it is sought in the right way. If it comes without asking, it is sure to come if asked for properly, and the benefit 6f such competition should belong to the colony, and not be thrown away on a concessionaire. But there is nothing at present to show that English firms, who may be willing to tender, know anything at all of the real conditions of the enterprise, or what it involves ; and in no case does it include the cost of the purchase of land, which would, be considerable. Offers are little more than rough estimates, till engineers have had time to examine and calculate. In the proper order of things, a careful engineer first examines, and the contractor calculates on the basis of his report. If there is no preliminary survey, then a corresponding margin has to be put on to cover unexpected contingencies, and this is a thriftless method of going to work, which no careful Government would encourage. As to contractors, it may be said, what does it matter to us what risks they run and what money they lose so long as the Government only pays for successful and completed work ? It matters a good deal. In the first place it is not to our interest that capitalists should sink money out here in unproductive enterprises. It is better for our finance and our credit that they should make money, and that Australia should have the reputation of being a good harvest field and not a grave for investment. And, in the second place, if the enterprise should break down in the middle the Government is sure to be dragged into it. There is but one possible buyer for an uncompleted work of that kind, and the country would have to take over a failure. No undertaking of this magnitude should be commenced or allowed to be commenced until it has been thoroughly studied and its successful execution has been made almost a certainty. At present the whole thing is clearly premature. Better communication with North Shore is badly wanted, but a steam ferry on the pattern of that at Brooklyn would more than answer immediate wants. The delay there is scarcely more than that of crossing a bridge with a toll, while it is quite as easy to drive any conveyance on to those capacious ferry boats as to drive under any porch or into any stable yard. The Government might fairly establish such a ferry as part of the Great North Road, and indeed it is open to question whether such a ferry would not be sufficient at present for crossing the Hawkesbury, and whether the half-million which the railway bridge there will cost could not be more advantageously spent elsewhere ? The North Shore Bridge. (1883, January 27). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), p. 176. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article162081433 

DEPUTATIONS.
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN NORTH SHORE AND MANLY.

A deputation of gentlemen representing the districts of Manly, East St. Leonards, South St. Leonards, Victoria and North Willoughby waited upon the Minister for Works yesterday, with respect to the desirableness of providing better means of communication than at present exist between North Shore and Manly. The deputation was accompanied by Mr. B O Holtermann, MLA, who explained the object of the deputation

Mr C H HAYES, Mayor of Manly, said he had been requested by various boroughs to present a petition setting forth the desires of the inhabitants of North Shore and Manly. He then read the petition, which was signed by a large number of inhabitants of the districts already named.

It was stated that the population of Manly was about 1327, that of East St Leonards 2320, that of South St Leonards, 2647, that of Victoria, 2182 and that of North Willoughby 1411, so that the total population of those districts was nearly 10 000 It was pointed out that there was no direct means of communication between the North Shore municipalities and the ocean at Manly by any easily practicable land route, that there are in the district of Manly and between Manly Bridge and Broken Bay many thousands of acres of Crown lands undisposed of, the value of which would be greatly enhanced by more direct communication, that the inhabitants of Manly have no means of getting to Sydney in stormy weather except by steamer, failing which by way of the road by Balgowlah and the ferries at Middle Harbour and St Leonards, and that great inconvenience frequently arises from the want of direct means of communication. It was also pointed out in the petition that great benefit would arise to all the boroughs previously mentioned, were easy access to Manly Beach and the ocean afforded without the people being compelled in stormy weather to cross the harbor in steamers, and that what was required could be accomplished by the construction of a tramway carried by a bridge over Middle Harbour at some convenient point accessible from St. Leonards and the other municipalities on the North Shore. It was further stated that if such a means of communication were provided, it would afford a most desirable outlet for the people of Sydney and North Shore on holiday occasions, and could help to prevent the tendency to dangerous crowding in the steamers which was found to prevail on all public holidays.

Mr. COPELAND said that he saw from a memorandum which had been obtained from Mr. Bennett that preliminary surveys had been made, but satisfactory progress did not appear to have been made with the work. He (Mr. Copeland) thought that the work recommended by the deputation was a desirable one to carry out, provided the expense did not prove too great.

Mr. Bennett had estimated the cost of a bridge at £45 000, and had stated that if it was to be a swing bridge an additional sum of £5000 would be required, making the total cost £50,000. He was not sure whether any cheaper bridge could be constructed than that. Then there would be the cost of the tramway to be taken into consideration. He would promise the deputation that a thorough examination would be made, and if it could be found that a cheaper and serviceable bridge could be constructed the mutter would receive very favourable consideration. He was quite in sympathy with the desire of the deputation to get a bridge across to Manly, and thought that it was a very desireable work, but he did not think that at present he would be justified in asking Parliament to vote £50,000 for that bridge.

In reply to Mr Hayes, Mr Copeland said that in the event of its being found that a bridge would be too costly to construct at present, the Government would, after the proposed cable tramway at St Leonards had been constructed and found to work satisfactorily, consider the desirableness of constructing a cable tramway on the other side of North Shore, and of providing a steam ferry

Mr HAYES said that at present there was a small punt, but it was unreliable, and the approach to it was very steep. DEPUTATIONS. COMMUNICATION BETWEEN NORTH SHORE AND MANLY. (1883, March 17). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 9. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13530446 

Road up from Milson's Point, 31 Dec 1880. Image 15344_a044_000013, courtesy State Records of NSW

NORTH SHORE ARE THE STRAIT GATE,

TO THE EDITOR OF THE SYDNEY DAILY TELEGRAPH.

Sir, — If all who enter through the strait gate and walk in the narrow way are off to " the Eden above." then of the North Shore people there shall not a ‘'hoof be left behind." From the Steam Ferry Company's wharf at Milson's Point to though main road, leading through St. Leonards to districts beyond, the passage is so narrow that only one vehicle can pass at the time. A single gate, and that of ordinary size, suffices to close the whole thoroughfare, so that the width cannot be over 10 feet. The roads and streets of the districts to the north converge towards the portion under notice. 

The wood carts and fruit carts from Hornsby, Lane Cove, Willoughby, North Shore, together with the 'buse's, private carriages, horses, carts, buggies, drays, waggons, hearses, mourning-coaches, and wheelbarrows of the North Shore, one by one wriggle through a passage scarcely wide enough for an entrance to a coal-yard. Can anything be more ridiculous than the whole population of 80 square miles having no other access to the harbour and the city than by a way in width not a sixth of that required for a bush road 600 miles from the capital. 

At about 1 o'clock in the afternoon the scene near the ferry is one of sweet confusion, as the zealous aspirants struggle for the narrow way. Whips crack, naves and spokes rattle, while Smith, Brown, and Jones strive for the track with all the Christian energy and zeal of. a captain in the Salvation Army. Here a coroner might spend all his time, provided the road was twice its present width; but as things are an accident seldom occurs, horses and people being be closely huddled together that there is no room for a kick or hit, or forcible collision. Now, sir, is there any need for such inconvenience? Patience is a virtue ; and they, who suffer without complaining, when suffering cannot be obviated, or when some good end is to be served, are worthy of the highest commendation. But where annoyance, loss of time, pain and danger are endured to no advantage, it is time to ask if the penury of the country is such that the resumption of 100 square yards of land in the neighbourhood of Milson's Point dare not be undertaken. If the thing is necessary and possible, and must be done some day, and can only be performed hereafter at greater expense, it should be undertaken without delay. 

Yours &c

LANE COVE.

NORTH SHORE ARE THE STRAIT GATE. (1883, July 6). The Sydney Daily Telegraph (NSW : 1879 -1883), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239274832 

Our Metropolitan Suburbs: North Shore.

FAMED alike for the beauty of its scenery and for the historical interest attaching to it, North Shore is, with-out doubt, one of the most charming of our metropolitan suburbs. Both as a place of residence and as a holiday resort, ' The Shore,' as it is familiarly called,, grows more popular year by year, although it is questionable whether even one per

MR. WILLIAM DIND.

cent, of the thousands of holiday-makers who flock to it during the summer months in search of the picturesque, give a thought to the days that are gone, or to the strange scenes that have been enacted on ground now covered with bricks and mortar, or cut up into desirable building sites.

And yet to know something of the history of a place is to feel a new interest in it ; to view it with new eyes. Standing here in front of East St. Leonards Town Hall, amid these busy shops and with crowded tramcars passing to and fro, let us construct a retrospective tableau of past years. These 'points,' or promontories, at which the ferryboats now call every few minutes throughout the day, are covered with dense scrub. Dotted about here and there are a few bark huts and tents, each in its clearing away up there on what is now known as Berry's Estate the blackfellows are camped. To-night they are going to hold a great corobboree, and their dusky skins, fantastically striped with red, white, and yellow clay, will glisten in the ruddy glow of their huge camp fire. The hills and dales all around us are covered with bush giant trees and matted undergrowth. Shall we, with an eye to the future, secure some of this wilderness while we have the chance? A little money will go a long way invested in land now, or, with a little skilful manoeuvring, a little manipulation of the wires, or some trifling service rendered to the State, we may perhaps get a Crown grant assured to us, and to our heirs and assigns 1 for ever ! Some day, perhaps, this land may be worth having. We will take a few thousand acres * on spec.'

And now- What's that? ' Beg par-don, sir, but I must ask you to move on ; you are obstructing the footpath.' We awake from our day dream, rub our eyes, and look up. Scrub and blackfellows and bark huts all fade away as if by magic. We are back again in 1889, and this is a police-man, and he has asked us-politely, indeed, but firmly - to 'move on.'

North Shore is divided into four boroughs: St. Leonards, East St. Leonards, Victoria, and North Willoughby. It is not every place that can boast of four mayors, but we do not know that ' The Shore' is to be congratulated on this account. On the contrary, indeed, the arrangement appears to us a very absurd one. Union is strength. One big corporation ought to possess more influence and carry more weight than four small ones, and the time cannot be very far distant now when an amalgamation must take place, and North Shore be known as ' North Sydney.' So far, indeed, has the Shore progressed towards this desirable end tnhat in three of the boroughs -namely, Victoria, St. Leo-nards, and East St. Leo-nards - the principle of amalgamation has been affirmed, and the matter has been placed in the hands of the members for the electorate, Messrs. Cullen and Burns, to bring forward in the Assembly. As things stand at present, the suburb suffers for want of funds to carry out such schemes as would materially advance its interests ; such important matters, for instance, as drainage, gas, and water. With an amalgamated Council, and with the golden prospects now before it, of which we shall have more to say, there should, be but little difficult}1 in floating a substantial loan on the English market, and in a few years rendering it the Brooklyn of Sydney ; of as great importance and with as flourishing a trade as that possessed by the more advanced suburbs across the water.

East St. Leonards Town Hall, a brick building, more useful than ornamental, is within four or five minutes' walk of the ferry landing at Milson's Point. The borough, covering an area of between 500 and 600 acres, contains 1,099 houses, and a population of about 5,250. It was incorporated in 1860. The first Council consisted of Aldermen William Tucker (Mayor), Mil-son, Lord, Dind, Loxton, and Erith. Death has played sad havoc with that Council!

MILSON'S POINT, NORTH SHORE.

The present Mayor is Mr. J. W. Manford, builder and contractor, of Arthur-street. The total annual value of ratable property within the borough is £88,794 16s. 10d., the capital value being £1,330,000. The Council Clerk is Mr. P. A. Temple, who has occupied that important position for the past six years.

East St. Leonards is not particularly well off for public buildings, but between Milson's Point and Kirribilli Point are some of the prettiest private residences to be found in or around Sydney. At Kirribilli Point, by the way, is the residence of the Rear-Admiral, which was purchased by the Government from Mr. Thos. Cadell for some £30,000. The house stands in about five acres of ground, it is somewhat remarkable that while East St. Leonards is rich in water frontage, not one yard of that frontage has been reserved for the use of the public as a park or recreation ground. The first Government decreed that one hundred feet of

land, from high-water mark, should be reserved all around the harbour pro bono publico, but the law seems to have remained in this respect the deadest of dead letters. At Cremorne, formerly known as Robertson's Point, there remains about a mile and a half of the once-extensive water frontage still available. At the Council's instigation, Government intend to hold on to this poor little strip of land, in the interests of the North Shore public.

MESSRS. J. FORSYTH & SONS' TANNERY, NORTH SHORE.

The borough of St. Leonards, which adjoins that of East St. Leonards, is six square miles in extent, possesses 1597 houses, and a population, roughly speaking, of close on 8000. St. Leonards was incorporated in 1867. The Mayor is Mr. E. Bunch, and he appears to be very popular with the burgesses. The Clerk to the Council is Mr. W. B. Smith, who has acted in that capacity for the past four years. Choice building sites in St. Leonards are worth about £14 per foot, although one section, at the junction of Miller-street and Lane Cove-road, is valued at between £50 and £60 per foot, but this is on account of its exceptional position. There are three large public reserves in St. Leonards, one facing the Council Chambers, of some forty acres in extent, being remarkable for the beautiful scenery which it commands.

Victoria is an off-shoot of St. Leonards. It is two hundred acres in extent. The Mayor is Mr. "William "Waterhouse, this being his second year of office, and the Council Clerk is Mr. Walter George Millington, who has filled that position since Victoria Ward became a borough, in 1871. Victoria contains 779 houses, and a population of between 3000 and 4000.

North Willoughby, the remaining North Shore borough, covers an area of thirteen square miles. The population is about 1600, and there are just 550 houses within the Borough. Mr. James Simpson is the Mayor, and Mr. Jas. Anderson is Clerk to the Council. This is Mr. Simpson's second term of office, which is a sufficient proof of his popularity with the ratepayers. North Willoughby became a borough in 1865. Choice building sites in the main thorough-fare are worth from £4 to £5 a foot, and owners evince a decided inclination to ' hold on' for the rise in values which they are certain is coming. Certainly when the line now in course of construction between Hornsby and Milson's Point is opened for traffic, which will probably be in about a couple of years' time, North Willoughby, through which it passes, ought to ' look up.'

The North Shore water supply scheme, now on the point of completion, should prove a boon to the residents. At present the place is dependent for its water on a nine-inch pipe, which, passing under the harbour, connects with Crown-street reservoir. Were this pipe to burst there would be a ' water famine ' at North Shore, but this calamity will not threaten much longer for the new supply will shortly be available.

North Shore, Manly, and Pittwater form one electorate, and return three members to Parliament.

One of the most notable of North Shore identities is Mr. William Dind, who has resided in the place for something like forty years. Mr. Dind is, to use his own phrase, ' no chicken,' but he is nevertheless in the enjoyment of excellent health, and possessed of a physique which many a man twenty years his junior might envy; Mr. Dind knows much that is interesting about North Shore. He was formerly Mayor of East St. Leonards, and is very popular with* his fellow-townsmen. To show how land has increased in value at Milson’s Point, it is only necessary to mention that thirty-five years ago Mr. Dind purchased the site occupied by his hotel for £1 per foot. The same land is now worth £40 per foot, and indeed choice building sites are very difficult to get at all at North Shore.

The oldest resident of Milson's Point is. Mr. J. Milson, a cheery old gentleman of about seventy years of age, who has lived on the Point which bears his family name since he was four years old. The Point, by the way, was called after the late Mr. Jas. Milson, who held a Crown gran!; of some fifty acres or thereabouts early in the century. Messrs. James and John Milson, his sons, are the only surviving members of the family. Mr. John remembers a time when hordes of black fellows frequented North Shore, and he has watched many a corobboree danced where shops and stores now stand, and 'buses and cabs ply for hire. Mr. Milson can recall the days of Bungaree, when, that dusky monarch, accompanied "by Queen Gooseberry, held his Court under the rocks in one of the bays or beneath the trees on the Point itself.

Bungaree, be it known to the reader, despite his name, which, like that of his queen, the fair Gooseberry, smacks somewhat of comic opera, was a noted chief or king in his day, and a mighty warrior. Culliban, another celebrated chief, Mr. Milson also remembers well. At that time North Shore was teeming with kangaroos and wallabies, while birds of all kinds were found in the bush, including the beautiful bronze-wing pigeon, and myriads of gaily-plumaged parrots and paroquets. 

' The Shore ' was a favourite camping-ground of the blacks in those early days, and round about Milson's Point was their principal fishing ground. ' Bungaree died in a hut over at William Macleay's place, in Elizabeth Bay,' said Mr. Milson to the writer ; ' I remember his death well-it took place about forty years ago.'

It appears his Majesty was much addicted to the fire-water of the pale-faces, and he used to get very drunk, so helpless, in fact, that he was covered with scars caused by his continually falling into the camp-fire and getting burned while 'under the influence.' His love of liquor probably hastened his end.

Hundreds of blackfellows were buried at Milson's Point, and Mr. John Milson has quite an extensive collection of stone knives, tomahawks and axes, clubs and spears, etc., dug up on the Point. Such relics of the original owners of the soil are still found occasionally; probably an enthusiastic curio-hunter would easily fill a waggon with such things were he to visit the former camping grounds of the blacks at North Shore and other suburbs of Sydney.

The blacks on Milson's Point, by the way, had a queer method of making things un-pleasant for those of their number who offended against the laws laid down by the king for their general guidance. The offender would be made to toe a certain mark, nude, and with only a shield, sometimes of wood, sometimes of thin bark merely (it depended on the nature of his offence), to defend r himself with. Then a number of expert spearsmen would be told off for spear-throwing, the unhappy prisoner being the target. ''? The culprit was generally placed on low ; ground, the spearsmen standing on a hill : about seventy yards away.

At a given signal the fun would commence, the King, Queen, and the rest of the royal family manifesting a lively interest in the proceedings. If the prisoner knew how to use his shield he would pass through the ordeal without a scratch ; if he did not understand the use of the shield he would stand a pretty good chance of providing a funeral for the same day. Instances were common enough of half-a-dozen spears piercing shield and body at the same moment.

Mr. Milson remembers when Lavender Bay bore a less euphonious title. It was Hulk Bay once, so called from the fact that the convict hulk was moored in it. That is upwards of forty years ago. The old black hulk, together with most of its inmates, has long since ceased to exist ; but it was a great institution ' once upon a time,' and boats were constantly travelling between the hulk and the shore. In those days free labour was almost unknown, and convicts were assigned to the settlers and did ail their work for them in return for food and clothing.

Gerrard Brothers established the first North Shore ferry. That was forty years ago. Instead of the splendid service of penny steamers, which now run every quarter of an hour between Circular Quay and Milson's Point, two very indifferent steam craft carried passengers between Blue's Point and "Windmill-street. As these vessels also did the towing for the port, communication was extremely irregular, and the only alternative was to obtain a water-man's skiff - if one were procurable. Gerrard's Ferry, as it was called, subsequently became Milson's Ferry Company, the Gerrards disposing of their interest in the concern to Mr. John Milson and some others, who in their turn sold out to the present company.

1. VIEW OF LAVENDER DAY 2. NORTH SHORE HOSPITAL, 3. IN ST. LEONARDS PARK. 4. POST OFFICE AND COURT HOUSE. 5. THE WESLEYAN CHURCH. 6, A WATERFALL NEAR ALFRED ST, ST. LEONARDS. 7. THE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. 8. HANGING ROCK, NEUTRAL BAY. 9. TOWN HALL AND FIRE STATION 10. MESSRS. G. T. CLARKE &. MCINTYRE'S PREMISES.

There are some enterprising business men at North Shore. Of these, Messrs. J. Forsyth and Sons, tanners and carriers, merchants and importers, are amongst the most prominent. They own the North Willoughby Tannery, their city warehouse being situated at 29 and 31 George-street West The success attending the operations of this important firm goes to show what pluck, perseverance, and energy can accomplish. Less than a quarter of a century ago they started business at North Willoughby, their capital being just £20. Mr. Jas. Forsyth, senior, the founder of the firm, retired from it nine years ago, having realised a fortune. His two sons, who now carry on the business -Messrs. Thos. Todd and Robert Forsyth are following rapidly in their father's foot-steps. Their tannery is one of the best equipped in the colony, and the goods they turn out have won an intercolonial reputation.

Messrs. Clarke and McIntyre (formerly carrying on business in Walker - street, as Auctioneers, Land, Estate and Financial Agents, have been established for several years, and represent many leading capitalists who have property in the St. Leonards district. Mr. Gr. T. Clarke's name is identified with many important subdivision sales. As a land salesman, he is recognised as one who thoroughly understands his business. The firm are agents for leading insurance and financial houses. The premises occupied by the firm were specially erected by them for the conduct of their business. In addition to the public- office are spacious auction rooms, managers' and private offices, also board rooms.

The St Leonards Land, Building, and Investment Company, Limited, are also doing a large business. The above company was established in the year 1886, and from its inception has proved a success. The capital of the company is * steadily increasing; on the other hand business in loans is so satisfactory that within three years the assets of the company amounted to over' £22,000. W. H. Tulloch, Esq, J.P., is the chairman, a gentleman well known in commercial circles and highly respected by the residents of St. Leonards. Messrs. Joseph Monday, A. Armstrong, J.P., j. T. Atchison, and John W. Eaton are the Directors, all of whom are local gentlemen, occupying prominent positions in the district. Mr. G-. T. Clarke, J.P, is the manager.

Perhaps the most enterprising retail tradesman at the North Shore is Mr. W. H. Stephenson, whose ' drapery ' in Miller street is as well known as the Town Hall. Six years ago Mr. Stephenson commenced business in Lane Cove Road, and was so suc-cessful that he very soon had to add another shop to his already large premises. In November, 1888, he purchased his present business, the premises being much more commodious than his old ones, and the site a very much superior one to that in Lane Cove Road. Mr. Stephenson subsequently effected extensive alterations to the shops he now occupies, and he considers that the money paid away for this purpose was well spent. He started six years ago with two hands ; he now employs ten, and his carts go all over the Shore. Mr. Stephenson attributes his success to his unflagging attention to business; he never misses an opportunity, and is an adept at the art of making hay while the sun shines.

(To be continued in next issue.) MESSRS. W. H. STEPHENSON& CO.'S PREMISES. Our Metropolitan Suburbs: North Shore. (1889, August 22). Illustrated Sydney News (NSW : 1881 - 1894), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article63621956 

(Continued from last issue.)

TERE are no very remarkable houses at North Shore. ' The Ranges,' at Mossman's Bay, is a very old house, but the oldest house is generally allowed to be the late Mr. Alex-ander Berry's residence, Lane ,Cove-road, and which is known as ' The Crow's Nest.' Mr. Edward Woolstonecroft built this house in 1820, the site it occupies being part of a grant received by Mr. Berry from Governor Bligh. Mr. Berry came out to Sydney as commander and owner of a trading vessel in 1808, and it was after the deposition of Governor Bligh that he made arrangements with the then existing Government to trans-port in his own ship the convicts from Norfolk Island to Derwent Island, Van Dieman's Land, which contract he successfully carried out. Mr. David Berry, of Shoalhaven, is the sole surviving member of the Berry family.

THE CROWS NEST.

Mr. Michael McMahon, whose portrait we give in this issue, is one of the oldest residents of the North Shore, and has probably done more for that locality than any one connected with it. Apart from the vigorous execution of his municipal duties as mayor of tho Borough of Victoria, he has exerted himself as a good citizen in many matters of local improvements, and was mainly instrumental in starting the steam ferry. In the early days his perception of the value of the materials to be found in the colonies led him to establish a brush-making industry, in which an article was produced never excelled before nor since in the history of Australian manufacture. His property at the Point named after him, which we describe later on, is one of the most exquisite sites in the city of Sydney, and on the beautifying of it the proprietor has spent much of his leisure, transforming it, with the best of taste and no little skill, from a waste into a place of shade and pleasant vistas, a spot on which the eye rests with delight. Amongst the many matters of importance in which Mr. McMahon has figured, he was the leader of the agitation for the North Shore bridge, a bill for the construction of which was to have been introduced when the Government went out; he was also prime mover in an attempt to obtain steam punts for the Shore, and £40,000 was actually placed on the Estimates when a somewhat similar catastrophe occurred ; latterly he has devoted himself to securing the Railway to Milson's Point, in which he has been successful, although his efforts have cost him a considerable sum in actual cash. It is by no means improbable that Mr. McMahon will yet live to see the two former measures become accomplished facts.

MR. MICHAEL MCMAHON.

We give on this page a portrait of the Council Clerk of North Willoughby, Mr. James Anderson. He is an old army man, and was through the Crimea in the Royal Engineers. After serving his country faith-fully for a number of years, Quarter-master Sergeant Anderson was discharged in 1870, at his own request, but, as he says, he is 'fit for service yet.' He holds the silver medal for the Crimea, with clasps for Inker-man and Sebastopol, the Sultan's medal for the Crimea, and medal and highest gratuity for long service and good conduct. This is a record of which any man might be proud In the past thirteen and a-half years Mr Anderson has held the position of Town Clerk, which he now occupies, and has won for himself the respect and esteem of his fellow-townsmen.

MR. JAS. ANDERSON,

Council Clerk, North Willoughby.

The sketch we give of St. Augustine's Church shows the building erected for the purpose of holding divine service by the English Church community at Neutral Bay. The Rev. Gr. North Ashe is rector of the parish.

ST. AUGUSTINE'S CHURCH, NEUTRAL BAY.

The oldest resident at North Shore is Mr. W. G. Matthews, who has lived at Berry's Bay for nearly sixty years. Mr Matthews is agent for the Berry Estate, and is still as active as a young man, while his memory is as vigorous as ever. He is a most genial and entertaining companion, and a really admirable raconteur. Mr. Matthews is unquestionably the best living authority on all matters connected with North Shore, and his reminiscences are full of interest. He is possessed of a very keen sense of humour, and relates some of his experiences with inimitable drollery. He landed in Sydney in 1834, at which time the upset price of land at North Shore was five shillings per acre. Governor Darling allowed the settlers to build houses around the Shore, and such of these persons as chose to send in a claim subsequently for the land they occupied invariably had such claim allowed. Oh for the good old days over again !

MR. MATTHEWS.

Berry's Bay, so Mr. Matthews informed the writer, was originally called Woolstonecroft Bay, after Edward "Woolstonecroft, who, by the way, was once offered a Crown grant by Governor Macquarie, comprising the entire site occupied by what is now known as "Woolloomooloo. This offer Woolstonecroft declined, preferring North Shore, where he subsequently settled on an extensive grant which he received from the Crown. New South Wales Governors had a right royal way in those days of giving acres, or even hundreds of acres, away almost for the asking.

Mr. Matthews remembers when bushrangers used to frequent North Shore, and was upon one occasion accosted by the redoubtable "Possum Jack ' himself, as infamous a rascal probably as ever . set foot in the colony, which is saying a good deal. Mr. Matthews was shooting birds in the bush at the time, when suddenly a gruff ' Hello ! What yer doin' here?' caused him to turn round, and he found himself standing face to face with Mr. 'Possum Jack. ' And pray what are you doing here ? ' replied Mr. Matthews, instantly covering his interviewer 

with, his gun. Jack, who was armed to the teeth, smiled grimly as he toyed with a revolver of decidedly formidable appearance. 'What's yer name?' was his next question. ' Matthews.' ' Matthews, hey ? Oh, you're all right; I've heard about you,' and off stalked Mr. Jack without another word. That was the day of assigned convict servants, and some masters didn't treat these men well. The convicts could not retaliate themselves, but they generally contrived to summon out-side assistance to their aid when necessary, and it was to pay off old scores on his friends' behalf that 'Possum Jack visited North Shore on the occasion in question. Mr. Matthews' reputation as a kind 'boss' and good fellow probably saved his life.

Convicts were frequently flogged by their masters' orders in those days, and 'Possum Jack, an escaped convict himself, delighted to get hold of some tyrannical ' boss ' and say to the grinning 'hands,' ' Here, tie him up and give him fifty lashes, and let's see how he likes it himself.'

Amongst the ti-tree on Berry's Estate, and not very far from Lane Cove-road, may still be seen carved on a large flat rock the outline of a shark. Within the shark is the figure of a man. The shark is rudely drawn, but the representation of the fish is nevertheless a very faithful one. This carving was done by the blacks, not even Mr. .Matthews can say how many years ago. But it was a tribal mark, and served to define the bounadry separating the Northern blacks from the Southern ones. Such drawings or carvings were very common at the North Shore, but time-and the irrepressible larrikin-have effaced nearly all of them now.

The illustration we give of Mr. Matthews' late and present residence are interesting in so far as they demonstrate the style, in No. 1, of the ' bad old times ' when houses were built by convict labour, and, in No. 2, of the peaceful, homelike cottage of the present day when architecture itself has cast off its rigid rule which adhered strictly to the necessary and now embraces the conveniences and beauties unknown in the old barbaric days.

2 THE ORIGINAL CONVICT-BUILT COTTAGE. 1. MR. MATTHEWS' PRESENT RESIDENCE.

Leaving old memories behind us of daysmany of which were best forgotten, except as illustrating the truth of the maxim that 'out of evil cometh good'-let us turn more particularly to North Shore of to-day, and mark the many evidences of a fast approaching period of great prosperity.

OUR METROPOLITAN SUBURBS : NORTH SHORE.

1. ST. PETER'S CHURCH. 2. MCMAHON'S AND BLUE'S POINTS. 3. CHRIST CHURCH. 4. BALL'S HEAD BAY 5. NORTH WILLOUGHBY FALLS. 6. THE OLD KEROSENE WORKS. 7. AT BERRY S BAY.

In the first instance the value of property will, at an early date, he materially increased by the great improvements which are now being elected in the means of commutation First of all, the branch line from Pearce's corner to North Shore, which had its terminus at Gore's Hill, is now being extended, its route crossing the Lane Cove-road just beyond the Crow's Nest, from whence it will run through the Berry Estate and thence by the shores of Lavender Bay to Milson's Point. This will prove of substantial benefit to the trade of North ¡Shore, although the most culpable delay has been caused by reason of the failure on the part of the Government to call for tenders for the third and final section, the second, of twenty-seven chains, ending in the most idiotic manner in a spot in the bush, where it will be of use to no one. Following the old-fashioned custom of colonial Governments, the most elementary business principles have been neglected, and the interest for money expended will be lost to the country until the completion of the final section.

The next improvements in communication will be the extension of the tram service to Falcon-street, and that portion of the Berry Estate which was last subdivided, on which, by the way, are now built some of the prettiest cottages to be found about Sydney. This will require, we are told, no extension of plant, as the  power to embrace the additional district ; thirdly, a tram service, owned by a syndicate, and authorised by Act of Parliament, is already being laid to the Spit and Manly, so that very shortly the evil from which the public has so long suffered will be entirely remedied.

Whilst upon the subject of trams, we must congratulate North Shore in possessing in the cable method, the only proper description of motive power in the city of Sydney. It is a positive relief for one accustomed to the locomotion provided in South Sydney to seat himself in the clean, comfortable carriages of the North Shore service. No dirt, no noise, and, above all, no danger to human life The primary cost is, doubtless, great, but we hold that with the means at hand to remedy this evil, which blights the southern suburbs, the Government have no right to I neglect them, and they are equally, if not more, responsible for the death of innocent ft men, women, and children than are the !'? guards and engineers connected with them.

The indescribably awful accidents which have occurred are sufficient to make any but long-suffering English rise in rebellion, and those who could remove this evil, but will not, may rest assured that the curse of many a widow and orphan will follow them to their graves.

THE GORE'S HILL BRICK WORKS.

There is a very large proportion of the population of Sydney who are utterly unaware of the many beauties to be found about North Shore. Taking the route to Lane Cove, one arrives, within a very few miles of Milson's Point, at virgin bush, growing on the Berry Estate, through which the road passes, a dusky remnant of the past, with its dark recesses apparently as solitary as when occupied by the blacks. Now and again, through the trees, one can catch exquisite glimpses of blue distance and still bluer bays, into which wooded points slope gently, whilst many a pretty villa nestles amidst the surrounding greenery. Stand, for instance, at the junction of the Lane Cove and Greenwich Roads, three hundred feet above sea level, and note the glorious prospect that stretches out before you. There are Lane Cove, Hunter s Hill, Five Dock, Ashfield, Burwood, Summer Hill in fact, the whole western portion of the 'city, in one splendid panorama, with the harbour waters all dotted with shipping, and away in the far distance the Blue Mountains, delicately traced against the sky. The air here is a very different thing to that which we inhale in the crowded streets of the city, although the smoke or haze which overhangs the distant suburbs lends, from our point of vantage, an air of mystery which hides from us the unartistic realism of bricks and mortar. One looks upon it as on some exquisitely painted drop scene, and one wonders idly, as if it were a matter of no moment to us, but merely part of a pleasant dream, as to what manner of people they mi«;ht be why inhabit all the distant city which is placed there evidently for our gratification.

Not a quarter of a mile from this point, following the road which leads along the heights, and which presents everywhere the most exquisite views we come upon the Gore's Hill Estate, with Mr. G. K. Whiting's beautiful house and grounds situated in one corner, affording ample proof of the quality of the soil, and the possibilities of the combination of taste and money, with the advantage of position. This estate, which is the property of the Land Company of Australasia-whose well-known business-premises ' occupy the corner of Pitt and Bridge streets, 

City-extends along the road for a distance of over half a mile, every foot of it commanding the scene which we have already described. For villa sites we can conceive nothing finer. Nor is one isolated, as might be supposed, for 'buses ply along the Lane Cove Road, and the railway line is within easy walking distance, yet not so close as to thrust itself into objectionable notice.

On another part of this estate we hare an industry in full work-one of which the Shore may be justly proud-the Gore's Hill brick works, destined in the future, doubt-less, to be the potteries of New South Wales. Underlying the whole estate is a bed of capital blue shale, with pipeclay immediately above it, and at these works which, by the way, are the largest in the colony-are manufactured those splendid, yellow - coloured, double - pressed bricks, of a consistency like flint, so compact are they, which one sees in the building now being rapidly erected by Mr. Dean - 'The Australia' hotel in Castlereagh-street. 

A visit to these works, of which we give an illustration, is most interesting. The shale is excavated from a pit about four chains square and about forty feet deep, where it is tempered with water, mixed, and then drawn up, by steam, in trucks to the works. Here it descends by a hopper, and is passed through a double set of rollers, which render it finer than the finest sand. From this process it emerges in a solid cake, and is passed through the wire cutter, which separates each brick, or forms them into those shapes which are used for sewerage work, the facing of house fronts, and all descriptions of fancy work. From here the embryo bricks pass to the sheds, where they undergo double pressing in a hand machine, and they are then stacked until completely dry. Their next journey is to the kiln-and such a kiln. Not the square, smoky, ugly mass with which we are all acquainted, but one known as the Hoffman kiln, an oval building two hundred feet in length, from the centre of which tapers a chimney stack a hundred and thirty-six feet high. Inside the building are sixteen chambers, to any or all of which heat mav be ap-plied. Each of these is capable of burning twenty-two thousand bricks. Above the chambers is the feeding room, extending the whole length of the building, and through the perforations in the floor the fire in the various chambers is fed with tar or exceed-ingly tine coal, the draft below carrying the heat in such a manner that the bricks are red-hot for a distance of some thirty feet from where these materials are supplied.

We have here briefly described the making of what is known as the double pressed plastic brick, as the most finished article known in the trade. In addition the works turn out thousands of the ordinary dry pressed bricks hourly, besides the ordinary wire-cut plastic and semi-plastic article.

The extraordinary demand for the excel-lent work turned out-the Company having now in hand huge contracts for nearly nine million ordinary bricks and half a million double pressed-have deterred them from paying attention to the more elegant articles of pottery and tile ware, such as are employed for roofing and flooring, but without a doubt this will all come m time. The materials at hand are of the very best and choicest, and as the manager, Mr A. H. Collings whose whole heart seems to be in his work, remarked, they are fitted to make anything, even being sought alter by amateur and professional sculptors.

The works seem to he going on without a single hitch, and are a credit to the management and all connected with them.

(Continued on page 20.) Our Metropolitan Suburbs: North Shore. (1889, September 5). Illustrated Sydney News (NSW : 1881 - 1894), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article63621962

St Leonards, Engraving - Lithograph, circa 1890 - Sydney Illustrated News

The North Shore, Sydney.

A RISING SUBURB.
(See illustrations on this page and page 26.)

MILSON'S POINT, NORTH SHORE — VIEW OF THE NORTH SHORE STEAM FERRY COMPANY'S ARCADE AND WHARF. . (See letterpress on page 27.)

St. Leonards Railway Station, North Shore, on the St. Leonards-Hornsby Branch of the Sydney to Newcastle Railway. (See letterpress on this page.)

How great events from little causes spring" was forcibly illustrated in the founding of the mother city of Australasia. In the first rough exploration of Port Jackson, the largest and most permanent-looking fresh-water supply to be found was the Tank Stream. This stream has long ago disappeared, and is almost forgotten. But, small as it was, it was sufficient to determine the site for the city. Had fresh water been found in larger quantities at Manly or North Shore, or any other place in the harbor, the first settlement might have been there. However, the advantages of the many charming sites on the North Shore of Port Jackson were speedily recognised; and many residences were established there. At first these were only to be reached by watermen's skiffs and private rowing boats. But these were by no means sufficient for the requirements; and at an early date a steamer known as the Fairy Queen was introduced; and shortly afterward a sister boat, the Gypsy Queen, was obtained. These were among THE FIRST STEAMSHIPS, plying in the harbor; and compared with the fine ferry boats,now in use, they were queer look-ing little things. At first the service was very irregular; the boats only starting when there was a load for them. Mr. Milson, however, with four or five other gentlemen, formed a company to organise regular steam communica-tion; and the steamer Kirribilli was added to the fleet. The boats started at what would now be considered very long intervals; but the service was a great improvement on the intermittent service previously in force. In 1877 this com-pany was bought out by the present NORTH SHORE STEAM FERRY COMPANY; and as the population of "the Shore" in-creased fresh boats were added to the fleet; and the intervals between the times for starting were shortened. The company showed much enterprise; but it was not left entirely without opposition. More than once opposition companies were started; and these ran for a time. But they were unable to compete with the old company, and therefore died out. The effect of these oppositions was, however, to induce the company to lower the fares from time to time; and, finally, in 1888 it was resolved that a uniform charge of ONE PENNY PER TRIP should be made. This resolution came into effect on July 1 of that year. At the present time the company has no less than fourteen steamers running to Milson's and MacMahon's points, Lavender, Neutral, and Mosman's bays, and other portions of North Shore.

AT MILSON'S POINT, the principal landing place, a handsome arcade and waiting-room have been erected; a number of shops being let. The tower is a conspicuous object in the trip from Circular Quay to North Shore. On passing through the arcade the ground, formerly very rough and rocky, has been cut down and levelled, and a capital asphalt footpath leads from the arcade to the town. The cable tram-way starts from Milson's Point, and runs to the St. Leonards recreation ground, known as Tunks Park. About three miles from Milson's Point, and about one mile froth the tram terminus in Miller-street, is the terminus of the branch railway line from St. Leonards to Hornsby Junction, on the Homebush-Waratah railway line. The length of the branch line is 10 miles 42 chains. At Hornsby Junction the line is 592ft above high water mark, and at the ST. LEONARDS STATION 238ft, showing a drop of 354ft over the whole dis-tance. There are 39 gradients, varying from 1 in 50 to 1 in 440. There are 14 curves, varying from 15 to 160 chains radius; about 6 miles being straight. The cuttings were very heavy; no less than 693,000 cubic yards of earth having been removed from cuttings to embankments, or an average of 66,000 cubic yards per mile. Nearly the whole of the land required for the railway was resumed. There are eight stations or platforms between Hornsby and the St. Leonards terminus. 

The St. Leonards rail-way station (see our illustration) is situated close to the Lane Cove-road, which crosses the line on an overhead bridge a few feet from the water tank. The tank has a capacity of 10,000 gallons, and is supplied from the main on the Lane Cove road. The platform is 264ft long by from 12ft to 15ft wide. The buildings are substantially built of brick, and comprise a lamp and store room, a ticket office, a general waiting-room, and a ladies' waiting-room, with lavatory and other conveniences. A wide verandah runs along the principal portion of the building. At the rear a pathway has been formed fronting the road which runs from the station to the Lane Cove road. Near the tank, and facing the Lane Cove road, is a comfortable five-roomed cottage occupied by Mr. F. Willis (the stationmaster) and his wife. The contractor for the station, stationmaster's house, &c., was Mr. William Refschauge, who appears to have carried out his work in a most substantial man-ner. At the present time the buildings are being painted, and have a glaring, brand-new appear-ance. There are four trains running along the line per day; and the average number of pas-sengers booked at St. Leonards is said to be twenty-two. The North Shore, Sydney. (1890, February 15). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 27. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71107995

Orchard Life Near Sydney.

(By "A City Cousin.")
(See illustrations on page 19.)

Sydney is for ever pushing out in all directions, elbowing all kinds of pleasant rural belongings out of the road, and replacing them with, villas, cottages, terraces, shops, etc. Yet the heart of the citizen turns longingly towards the country. He (talla 'himself that there peace da to be found, and possibly conjures up some pleasant dream of at length being able to sit under his own olive and fig, secure from the hurry and worry of the city, and tortured no more by its multitudinous noises. Sometimes the dream is realised in part, but. yaw true citizen, comes to find that his rural paradise is best when so situated that he can drop, without trouble or much delay, into the troublous city by the sea. How pleasant, then, must be the lot, I mused, of those whose lines are cast in such pleasant places. Think of the wide extent of orchard country near Sydney - only a matter of minutes' distance by rail from the heart of the city. And so I deter-mined to pay a visit to one of these spots-the one I selected as a type being on the North Shore line, which runs from Milson's Point on the harbor to Hornsby on the Northern line, 13 miles, but rising over 600ft in that distance.

The line from Milson's Point creeps round the picturesque bays and points, under the tunnels and bridges, continually giving glimpses of charming scenery, wide, sparkling water, distant, stately Sydney, moving ships, and panoramas of curving inlets and rugged headlands. On the train speeds, past new townships, with their fringe of tent dwellers and patched shanties, on to reaches of real bush, where luxuriant trees line the way, and scent the air with their sweet, aromatic leaves. Every few miles the red roofs of modern life glint through the trees, and old white cottages, half hidden in creepers, gleam through their wide orchards, some of them so old that they are moss-grown and broken down. About twelve miles from the Point the country becomes really sylvan, orchards crown the hills, and slope into the valleys, their golden, green, and ruddy fruit shining like jewels amid the varied verdure. Pymble possesses a fine situation, over 300ft above sea level, also a grand view over the vales and undulating hills to distant Sydney and outlying districts. A great advantage of this district is its nearness to the city, for the fruit gets only one handling. All this country side is very prolific, and there should be a great future for it.

The three-mile walk to Vernon Park, St. Ives, is pleasant enough, passing by quaint little cottages, tempting fruit trees leaning over the fencer, shady trees and gullies, and friendly people who greet the stranger pleasantly. The red dust and mosquitoes are to the fore, but the fresh, bracing air makes you forget such inconveniences. The creeper-clad homestead soon comes into view, lying behind an avenue of fine fir trees, tossing their tassels in the breeze, and surrounded by many acres of fine orchard. It is a pleasant situation, facing the east, receiving all the benefit of the early sun. It was a busy day when I arrived, but Mrs. X., who lives here, was glad to show her orchard. The 'summer fruit was in season, and the trees were laden, but not borne down to the ground. "You see," said the manager, "we are willing to throw away half the green fruit, if by so doing we can get a crop of extra fine fruit. See," and he plucked off many of what I thought, good peaches and threw them away, leaving a few dozen on the young tree in place of many.

The trees in this orchard are very well looked after, carefully manured with modern compounds, and the soil always kept just as they like it.

"Only seventeen years ago," said my friend, "this was a howling wilderness of big bush trees, but we grubbed them up, and loosened the soil 18in deep, and planted our oranges, etc., a little later. I have tried all kinds of experiments, some good and some bad, but now they are repaying me admirably, and go on giving, like the goose that laid the golden egg-I hope they will go on for ever, even if the other trees die."

"How many oranges does a tree bear on an average?"

"Well, on an average, about four cases a piece; of course, I have some trees which have given me about ten cases each. They bear nothing good until they are six years old, and in their old age they are better than ever," 

"When picking the oranges and lemons, do you scrub them to clean them for market?"

"Never, now; that is the old way. The sprayer does all that work."

I saw the sprayer at work-a simple thing, but it saves an infinite amount of trouble, for scrubbing a box of oranges is by no means a quick job. The lemon and orange trees suffer : from scale, Maori, and black spot; apples from Codlin moth and, aphis; pears from Codlin moth; peach trees from aphis; nectarines, from aphis; while plums and figs are almost free from pests. I looked at the strawberries, and thought they ought to pay well. It looks a nice easy crop to grow, but it needs à very great amount , of care and experience. I noticed there were many varieties of the one kind of fruit; the manager,'told me that it was the best plan to have forty trees of the same fruit, so that, in the sorting you -could, be sure of filling so many: cases with equal sizes. "Windfalls and small fruit ;bring in a fair sum; they sell easily and cheaply. 

" I should think, an orchard like this ought to bring in a good profit?"

"Well, we have a margin, that is all, a fair margin. For the first ten years it is give, give, and after that the margin increases a trifle every year, till about now it is fair, very fair indeed; but working expenses are great, and storms an 1 rain do a lot of harm, while careless packing and picking also lessen profits. An apricot tree takes seven years to mature, and then gives about 180 dozen fruit; a peach tree takes three years to grow up, and at five years, when thinned, bears of big peaches two half-cases, about 14 dozen; plum trees take five years to produce a good crop, about 180 dozen; pears are not worth having-until seven years old, when a good tree gives 120 pears; apples at five .years of age give of . baking apples 66 dozen, of eating apples 192 dozen; nectarine ¡trees average about double the crop of peaches; lemon trees the same as oranges. A favorite fruit is the persimmon.

I spent a pleasant day- fruit-picking. Early in the day, when the birds began to sing, as the sun rose over the dewy garden land, we went into the orchard, with wide hats like baby tents, and deep hoods to keep the Inquisitive sun in, his place, and baskets, not to mention big aprons to hold the fruit in as it was plucked. I wonder why apples, etc., never taste so good as _when you pick them yourself, even four hours later at market they taste stale. It was a pretty picture, standing under the trees, watching the fruit being gathered and thrown into wide aprons, and the boys clambering like monkeys from branch to branch, while the sunlight flickered on the red cheeked apples. The fruit is carried up on a hand-barrow, so that it is not shaken and bruised, for the least touch bruises it unmercifully. The hand-barrow is Just like a stretcher, and. looks primitive, but nothing modern is more effective.

I wondered at so much unripe fruit being picked, but was told that the birds destroy it, even when nets are provided, and sudden storms are very destructive; also if ripe fruit is packed it often rots at once. Persimmons are always picked before they are quite ripe, and take, about a fortnight to ripen. I spent a few hours in the packing room, watching the work. The amount of sorting:, grading, and packing makes you wonder fruit is so cheap. There are partitions where the fruit is sorted into equal sizes, and very carefully looked over to see that they, are perfect. The moth is a curse, for it leaves no external sign, and many perfect specimens are "rotten at the core." At last the work is done, the boxes are corded and stencilled, the cart is laden, and ere daybreak will wend it-3 picturesque but weary three-hour drive to the Darling Harbor market.

Pure-bred or high-grade stock, if given good care and feed, respond by making an extra growth, while scrub stock has not been bred with a view to quick maturity, and will not grow beyond a certain point,.no matter how well-kept.

In breeding the motto, "Six good, thrifty pigs to a sow are better than a dozen-half of which are runts," is a good one to follow. Every sow is not a good mother, aud does not prove a good milker; There is just as much difference as there is in cows. Little pigs must be fed well to grow fast; a slow growth brings poor returns.

1. Picking fruit in the orchard. 2. A city cousin lends a helping hand. 3. Wheeling the fruit to the packing-house. 4. Ploughing the orchard. 5. Spraying the trees. 6. Carrying the fruit on a hand-barrow. 7. Scarifying the ground between the trees. 8. A view of the homestead.

(See letterpress In the Cultivator page 23.) Orchard Life Near Sydney. (1898, March 26). Australian Town and Country Journal (Sydney, NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 19. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71284603

Lane Cove Road at Turramurra ca.1910. Broadhurst postcard, courtesy State Library of NSW

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919.

Proposal to Declare a portion of the Shire of Ku-ring-gai to be a Residential District.

IT is hereby notified that the Ku-ring-gai Shire Council has applied to the Governor (a) to declare the portion of the Shire described in the Schedule hereto to be a Residential District, and to prohibit in such district (1) the erection of any building for use for the purposes of any trade, industry, manufacture, shop, or place of public amusement; (2} the use of any building for any such purposes; and (3) the erection or use of advertisement hoardings; and (b) to abolish the Residential Districts proclaimed by Proclamations in Government Gazettes Nos. 155 and 20 of 3rd November, 1922, and, 16th February, 1923, respectively.

Any person interested may, within one month from the date of this notice, make representations to the Minister in favour of or against the proposal, [L-G. 1924-134-717-196]

J. C. L. FITZPATRICK,

Minister.

Department of Local Government,

Sydney, 8th February, 1924.

Schedule.

The whole of the Shire of Ku-ring-gai with the exception of the following lands: —

(a) The public park known as "Ku-ring-gai Chase."

(b) Public reserves under the Council's control as owner or trustee, viz.:—

Roseville Chase; Davidson Park; Roseville Park; West Roseville Park; Children's Playground. Roseville; Lindfiold Park; Killara Park; Gordon Recreation Ground; East Gordon Park; Pymble Park; Soldiers' Memorial Park, Pymble; Hassall Park, St. Ives; Turramurra Park; Turramurra Look-out; and Wahroonga Park.

(c) Those lands having frontage to the following roads: — 

Roseville—

Lane Cove road—South-westerly side." From Corona-avenue to Shirley-road, and shop

at corner of Grosvenor-road. Northeasterly ' side, from Boundary-street to Clanville-road.

Hill-street—North-easterly side, from Bancroft-avenue to Roseville-avenue, to a depth generally as far as the depth from Hill-street to Roberts-lane. Clive-street—Both sides.

Archbold-road—North-easterly side. From Carnarvon-road to Woodlands-road.

Middle Harbour—Lots 113 to 120 inclusive in Austin Chapman's subdivision, Lindfield'—

Lane Cove road—South-westerly side, from Gladstone-parade to Fidden's Wharf road, North-easterly side, from Middle Harbour road to Wolseley-road. Lindfield-avenue—North-easterly side, from Tryon-road to Woodside-a venue. Tryon-road—South-easterly side, from Lane Cove road to railway. Sydney-road—-North-easterly tide, from Brisbane-avenue "to Tryon-road.

Killara— .

Lane Cove road—Existing shops on lot 10, Killara Estate, lot 4, sec. 2, Taranna Estate, lots* 1 and 2, resubdivision of lot ]. Teranna Estate. Lots 8 and 9 and 10, sec. 1, Great Northern Township Estate. Marian-street Existing shops on north-westerly side—Lots 31 and 32, sec. 2, Springdale Estate. South-easterly side—lot 27, sec. 2, Springdale Estate.

Telita-avenue—-South-westerly side, from Marian-street to Lorne-avenue. Gordon—

Lane Cove road—North-easterly side, Greengate Hotel, North-easterly side, from Fox-street to Pittwater-road. South westerly side, from St. John's road to Ryde-road.

Fox-street—Both sides. Henry-street—South-westerly side, from Fox street to Pridham's (inclusive), John-street—North-easterly side from Khartoum-avenue to Gordon Recreation Ground.

Pymble—

Lane Cove road—South-westerly side, from Livingstone-avenue to Pymble Hotel (in/ elusive). North-easterly side, from Post Office to Bannockburn-road. Grandview-road—North-easterly side, from Station-street to Post Office street. 

St. Ives—

Pittwater-road—North-westerly side, from Cowan-road lo Rosedale-road. Southeasterly side, from Rosedale-road to Stanley-street.

Turramurra—

Lane Cove road—Southern side, from Railway Bridge to Duff-street. Northern side, from Ku-ring-gai Chase avenue to and including corner block (lot 7, Arcadia Estate) on west side of Ray-street. Rohini-street—North-easterly side, from Lane Cove road to Eastern-road. Bay-street—East side, from Lane Cove road to William-street. Eastern-road—East side, from Alice-street to bridge opposite Gordon-lane. William-street—South-westerly side, from Lane Cove road to Rav-street. Ku-ring-gai Chase road—Both sides for 5

chains each way from King-street. 

Warrawee— ,

Fox Valley road—North-westerly side, from Strone-avenue to Sanitarium. Portions 29 and 30. Lane Cove road—South-westerly side, from Marshall-avenue to approximately 3 chains south from Blytheswood-avenue. 

Wahroonga—

Lane Cove road—North side, from Coonanbarra-road- to Isis-street. Coonanbarra-road -East side, from Lane Cove road to Railway. West side, from Millewa-avenue to Woniorn-avenue. Railway-avenue—Both sides, from Coonan barra-road to Railway Bridge. Stuart-street—South side—one existing shop at corner of Railway-avenue.

Warwilla-avenue—South-westerly side, from Coonanbarra-road to Neringah-avenue.

Gladvs-avenue—Both sides, from Hampden avenue to Westbrow-avenue. 1[4494]

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1919. (1924, February 8). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 900. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223594240 

WIDENING AND RECONSTRUCTING THE LANE COVE-ROAD.

THE WORK IN PROGRESS NEAR THE GORE HILL CEMETERY. The road will be widened between St. Leonards Station and Longueville.

WIDENING AND RECONSTRUCTING THE LANE COVE-ROAD. (1927, June 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16383865 

MANLY TO BAY VIEW—A POPULAR EASTER RESORT BY ROAD

1. On the Narrabeen Lagoon. 2. View from Sheepstation Hill, looking south. 3. Bay View. 4. a dip in the surf at Narrabeen. 5. Near Long Reef. 6. Approaching Narrabeen. 7. One of the creeks.

The distance from Manly to Bay View is about 15 miles. The road is by the Narrabeen-road past Rocklily. A proposal to put down a tram line is now being considered, and a member of the ministry was recently driven over the country, which in many parts is remarkably picturesque.

1. On the Narrabeen Lagoon. 

2. View from Sheepstation Hill, looking south. 

3. Bay View. 

4. A dip in the surf at Narrabeen. 

5. Near Long Reef. 

6. Approaching Narrabeen. 

7. One of the creeks.

Image No.: c071950005 Box 17, Albums of William Joseph Macpherson - Bay View, courtesy State Library of NSW and Macpherson Family.

NB: these are photographs by William Joseph Macpherson (Wharriewood - Warriewood) - visit:  The Macphersons of Wharriewood and Narrabeen: the photo albums of William Joseph Macpherson

That's right Readers - Roads IN Pittwater are next!