A Tent at The Basin
Camping at the deep inlet called ‘The Basin’ was how the first European settlers lived in this beautiful little paradise. Rock carvings at The Basin of fish tell it was a place visited by the Indigenous peoples for thousands of years prior to this during the fish run seasons, usually winter for Pittwater according to literature on Aboriginal Women's Fishing Practices since 1788.
In 1834 Martin Burke applied for land here;
CUMBERLAND-50 Acres Parish of Broken Bay, and at the Basin at Pittwater ; applied for by Martin Burke ; price 5s. per Acre No Title. (1834, January 14). The Sydney Monitor (NSW : 1828 - 1838), p. 3 Edition: MORNING. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article32145420
Above: Our Camp at the Basin, Broken Bay, 1884 by Harold John Graham (1858-1929). nlapic-an6438966, Below: nla.pic-an6438962 Graham, H. J. (Harold John), 1858-1929. Broken Bay 1884 or 1885. Both images Courtesy of the National Library of Australia.
Graham, H. J. (1884). Our camp, the Basin, Broken Bay Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-135522855 - Graham, H. J. (1885). Broken Bay Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-135522369
Graham, H. J. (1884). Barranjoey Head, Broken Bay Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-135522685
This lovely emerald inlet was also known as Blind Cove:
This beautiful little bay shown in our illustration, formerly private property, has been made a reserve of by Government, and is now practically a cruising ground for the yachting community of Sydney. A more useful and delightful sheet of water could not have been chosen, situated as it is at the entrance to the Hawkesbury River, just opposite Barrenjoey. To the north is the broad expanse of water known as Brisbane Water, and to its south Pittwater, which is now connected with Sydney, Newport, and Manly by means of a coach running daily. Blind Cove, also called The Basin, is a safe refuge in the very worst of weather. It owes its name of Blind Cove to the fact of its being invisible to the incomer until he has almost reached its entrance, which is very narrow and hidden from view by a low stretch of sand; but inside this narrow passage there is deep water, and the height of the hills surrounding the basin (some 600ft) so thoroughly shelter it from heavy winds that it might well be called Looking-glass Bay. It is on account of this, and also the beauty of the surrounding scenery, that has made it one of the principal rendezvous of yachtsmen.
Blind Cove, Pittwater, N.SW. (1883, March 10). Australian Town and Country Journal (NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 26. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article70996783
Blind Cove (The Basin) 1883 Illustration from Australian Town and Country Journal
During the late 1880's and 1890's The Basin was the focus of a series of Basin Regattas with local residents included. In fact Pittwater almost had a chapter of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron with one member, Dr James Frederick Elliot, purchasing lands at Careel Bay for the purpose a few decades after members had first started visiting The Basin.
An album of wonderful earlier photographs of Pittwater recently donated to the Australian National Maritime Museum, 'Photographs of boating on Pittwater including steam yacht ENA' circa 1890, includes views on board the yacht ERA, the crew of ERA, antics on board, fishing off West Head, picnic scenes, WAITANGI and ELECTRA, racing, the launch of the TUFA, men and women in rowing boats, scenes around Sydney Harbour and more. The album, of 55 pages, was a Gift from Tim McCormick Rare Books and shows there are still many more items around that show Pittwater and her environs than have been seen so far and underline the vital part in our heritage and history, as much as showcasing current developments, the Australian National Maritime Museum has.
The National Maritime collection contains a rich and diverse range of over 140,000 historic artefacts. Using the search term 'Pittwater'brings up a vast array of images and insights, many of them of those celebrated earlier Pittwater Regattas and the grogeous yachts and motor launches that once massed here around Christmas and into New year's each year.
The Australian National Maritime Museum is Australia’s national centre for maritime collections, exhibitions, research and archaeology. The museum, at Darling Harbour, presents a changing program of stimulating exhibitions and events to share Australia’s maritime history and connect the stories, objects, people and places that are part of our country’s narrative. The ANMM welcomes over 850,000 visitors annually including families, interstate and international tourists. Over 13,000 members support the museum and regularly enjoy special events and activities. It's well worth a visit or two if you haven't been. To find out more about what's coming up, visit: www.sea.museum
In the collection's album 'Photographs of boating on Pittwater including steam yacht ENA', one of these images appears to show the terraces of gardens that once went upwards on the hills above the Basin, as mentioned by Jim Macken in one of his great history books, Sally Morris of the Basin:
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'Topham' is first associated with Frederick James Jackson's name for his cottage at The Basin, later named 'Beechwood' or 'Beachwood'.
In December 1854 the Olivers, who had been farming the land at The Basin, sold their holding to William Small for £300. In 1855 Mr. Small mortgaged The Basin land for £600 to the Oriental Bank Corporation.
Jim Macken, in his 'Sally Morris of The Basin' (2001) states that three Bills of Exchange were drawn by financier M. A. Worms but in June 1877 Mr. Small died intestate and the bank moved in to make a claim:
In the Supreme Court of New South Wales. ECCLESIASTICAL JURISDICTION.
In the goods of William Small, late of Brisbane Water, in the Colony of New South Wales, former, deceased.
NOTICE is hereby given, that after the expiration of fourteen days from the publication hereof in the New South Wales Government Gazette, application will be made to the Supreme Court of New South Wales, in its Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, that letters of administration of the goods, chattels, credits, and effects of the above named William Small, deceased, may be granted to John Skinner, as Manager of the Oriental Bank Corporation, a creditor of the said deceased.—Dated this first day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight.
WANT, JOHNSON, & WANT, Proctors for the said John Skinner. 2295 6s. 6d. ECCLESIASTICAL JURISDICTION. (1878, April 2). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), , p. 1370. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223113095
PITT WATER, BROKEN BAY.
ORIGINAL GRANT of 50 ACRES, at the BASIN, being lot 24 sold, by proclamation of 17th June, 1834, to ROBERT MACINTOSH.
It is described as commencing at a marked tree in a small bay at Pitt Water, and bounded on the west by a line north 22 chains, on the north by a line east 25 chains to Pitt Water, and on the south-east and all other sides by that water to the marked tree
RICHARDSON and WRENCH have received instructions to sell by public auction, at the Rooms, Pitt-street, on FRIDAY, 31st May, at 11 o'clock.
The above-described romantically-situated 50 acres of good land at Pitt-water. This is a well-known property, being the camping grounds of the yachtsmen in a bay under the SOUTH-WEST shore of PITT WATER, about two miles from Barrenjoey. Plan at the Rooms. Terms at sale.
Messrs. WANT, JOHNSON, and WANT, Gresham street, Solicitors of the vendor. Advertising (1878, May 18). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 14. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article13422340
John Skinner, on behalf of the bank, sold Mr. Small's 50 acres of land to Frederick James Jackson, RSYS and RPAYC yachtsman and insurance broker, for £50 in 1881. A holiday house the Jackson's named 'Topham' and then 'Beechwood' was built at The Basin in 1881 and finished by 1882. This was used by the family and F J Jackson's sailing friends and fellow members of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club. Mr. Jackson was a founding member of both these clubs.
Topham. F.W. Jackson's Cottage at The Basin [From NSW Government Printer series: Kuring-gai Chase No 52] - 01-01-1900 to 31-01-1900, courtesy State Records and Archives, Item FL3592565
Topham. Coasters Retreat, Pittwater, looking towards. By Barrenjoey Government Printing Office, Image No.: 1 - 08824, courtesy State Library of NSW.
Topham. The Basin [From NSW Government Printer series: Kuring-gai Chase No 52] - 01-01-1900 to 31-01-1900, courtesy State Records and Archives, ItemFL3592677
The word 'Topham' stems from European words and has and is used as a surname. Topham as a name and place-name name meaning:
English (especially Yorkshire):: Nickname From Middle English Toppan Of Uncertain Meaning. The second element is perhaps Middle English Pan(Ne) ‘(Crown Of The) Head’ while Top- could be derived from several different words. If from Middle English Toppen ‘To Shave (The Head)’ then Toppan may have been a name for a barber who provided tonsures for the Clergy. Alternatively Top- Might Represent Middle English Tup Top(Pe) ‘Ram Male Sheep’ hence ‘Ram-Head’ or Middle English Top(Pe) Anglo-Norman French Tupe ‘Hair On The Head Tuft Of Hair Forelock’ Denoting Someone With A Distinctive Head Of Hair. Variant Of Topping. In Lincolnshire A Variant Of Tupholme A Habitational Name From A Place So Named In Lincolnshire.
The Place-name Derives From The Old Norse personal name Tupi of obscure origin, Middle English Tup ‘Ram’ + Old Norse Holmr ‘Small Island Water Meadow’. The Place-name may derive from Old English Topp ‘Top Hill Top’ + Hām ‘Village Homestead’. Source: Dictionary of American Family Names ©2013, Oxford University Press
Mr. Swannell (1835-1897) was baptised in Harpur Street Methodist Chapel, Bedford, Bedfordshire, England on February 22nd, 1837.
In 1910 Mr. Jackson brought his land under Torrens Title:
Frederick James Jackson 43 acres 1 rood 1 3/4 perches at Basin & Coasters Retreat in Pitt Water in Shire Warringah Parish Broken Bay County Cumberland Volume 2256 Folio 167
Date range:
09/03/1910 to 25/05/1912
Item Number Or Control Symbol:
PA 16450
Descriptive Note:
Primary Application - Frederick James Jackson 43 acres 1 rood 1 3/4 perches at Basin & Coasters Retreat in Pitt Water in Shire Warringah Parish Broken Bay County Cumberland Volume 2256 Folio 167
Access Direction:
Effect: Early; Duration:
NOTICE UNDER REAL PROPERTY ACT
APPLICATION having' been made to bring the lands hereunder described under the provisions of the Real Properly Act. Certificate of Indefeasible Title will issue, unless Caveat be lodged in accordance with the said Schedule to the said Act, on or before August 3. 1910;—
No. 16,450. APPLICANT:— Frederick James Jackson, Darling Point, Sydney. LAND:— County Cumberland, parish Broken Bay, shire Warringah, 43 acres 1 rood 1 3/4 perches at the Basin and Coasters Retreat in Pitt Water, part 50 acres (portion 14 of parish), granted to Robert Mcintosh; adjoining property of Trustees of Ku-ring-gai Chase.
Diagram delineating this land may be inspected at the Land Titles Office, Elizabeth-street, Sydney.
W. G. H. Williams.
Registrar-General.
June 15, 1910. Advertising (1910, June 18). The Daily Telegraph (Sydney, NSW : 1883 - 1930), p. 23. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article239418207
The application did not sit well with Sally Morris and Victor Le Gay Brereton, a solicitor and regular visitor to The Basin, acted on her behalf by applying for a restraining order. Jim Macken's 'Sally Morris of The Basin' states (page 18):
In answer to Sally's application for the restraining order Jackson swore an affidavit dated 25/7/1910 stating:
Purchased property April 1881. Conveyance dated 14/4/1881 - arranged with Mary Ann Morris to be caretaker for one pound per month and permitted her to run her cattle on the land. In the year 1882 I erected upon the property a seven room weatherboard dwelling house and out buildings. I or some of my family have resided in the said house once a month ever since. In addition to my paying her one pound per month she has rendered services to my family in the said house for which she was paid in addition.
From the year 1886 I employed a Chinese gardener upon the property who lived in a cottage on the land and who worked continuously upon the orchard and garden upon the property during the whole of these years.
In the ANMM collection's album 'Photographs of boating on Pittwater including steam yacht ENA' circa 1890, one of these images appears to show the terraces of gardens that once went upwards on the hills above the Basin, as mentioned by Jim Macken in his Sally Morris of the Basin.
The dispute was resolved by agreement in February 1912 with Mr. Jackson granting Sally a lifetime lease over the land she inhabited in exchange for which she allowed the land to be brought under the Real Property Act. A formal lease was issued, dated October 1914, of the land on which Sally's house stood, gave her the lifetime lease promised.
Mr. Jackson's The Basin holding was transferred to the Kuring-Gai Chase Trust in July 1916 - the Notice reflecting Mary Ann's established lease:
Department of Lands,
Sydney, 1st December, 1916,
Proposals under section 25, Crown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913, in respect of a Public Recreation Ground (addition) at The Basin, Pittwater.
WHERE AS I am of opinion that it is expedient in the public interest to resume an area of 42 acres 2 roods 7 perches of land at The Basin, Pittwater, dedicated 28th July, 1915, for Public Recreation (addition), and described in the Schedule hereto: Now, therefore, notice is hereby given, in accordance with the provisions of the 25th section of the Crown Lands Consolidation Act, 1913, that it is proposed to deal with the said land in the manner following, that is to Bay,—to revoke the dedication of the said area of land heretofore made, and to re-dedicate the said area for Public Recreation as an addition to Ku-ring-gai Chase. [Ms. 1916-12,505]
W. G. ASHFORD, Minister for Lands.
Schedule referred to.
Description of an area of 42 acres 2 roods 7 perches at The Basin, Pittwater, dedicated 28th July, 1915, for Public Recreation (addition), the dedication of which is intended to be revoked, and which is intended to be rededicated for Public Recreation as an addition to Ku-ring-gai Chase.
All that piece or parcel of land containing 42 acres 2 roods 7 perches or thereabouts, situated at The Basin, Pittwater, Warringah Shire, parish of Broken Bay, county of Cumberland, being the land comprised in Certificate of Title, registered volume 2,256, folio 167, as shown upon plan catalogued Ms. 3,316 Sy. Exclusive of two areas (I rood 10 1/2 perches and 1 rood 19 1/2 perches), and a right-of-way 12 feet wide connecting same, which- form the subject of Real Property Act lease No. 661,6*20 to Mrs. M. A. Morris for the term of her life. Government Gazette Notices (1916, December 1). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 7108. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article225964801
The National Park itself was established in December, 1894, making it Australia's second National Park:
Department of Lands,
Sydney. 14th December, 1894.
REGULATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE RECREATION GROUND AT HAWKESBURY RIVER (COWAN CREEK AND PITTWATER), KNOWN AS " KU-RING-GAI CHASE."
HIS Excellency the Governor, with the advice of the Executive Council, having approved of the following Regulations for the management of the land at Hawkesbury River, known as " Ku-ring-gai Chase," area 35,300 acres, dedicated 14th December, 1894, for public recreation, Buch Regulations are published'for public information, in accordance with the 106th section of the Crown Lands Act of 1884.
[Ms. 94-8,858 Dep.] J. H. CARRUTHERS.
Proceedings of Trustees.
1. Regular meetings shall be held on the first Tuesday of each month, at 2 p.m.
2. All meetings shall be called by circular, posted three days before the day of meeting.
3. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of three members.
4. The Trustees shall annually elect a President, but in his absence from any meeting any other Trustee present may preside at that meeting.
5. The annual meeting shall be held in the month of March in each year, at which meeting the President and various Committees shall be elected.
6. The Trustees may at any regular meeting appoint any of their number a Committee to carry out such works, or perform such duties as may be authorised at such meeting.
7. Any vacancy of President or Committee shall be filled up at the next regular meeting after the occurrence of such vacancy.
8. No resolution passed at any meeting Bhall be rescinded unless upon notice given and entered upon the notice paper.
9. All notices for the expenditure of money shall appear upon the circular calling the meeting.
10. The Honorary Secretary shall keep a proper record of the proceedings of each meeting.
General.
11. No person shall, without the permission of the Trustees, cut, remove, or deface any tree?, shrubs, plants, rocks, seats, gates, posts or fences, or write thereon, or affix any writing or marks thereto. The defacing or removal of any aboriginal drawings or chippings on rocks is especially prohibited under this Regulation, as also the digging up or removal of any banks of shells and refuse, presumedly Aboriginal Kitchen-middens, in search of skulls, bones, or other aboriginal remains.
12. No person shall carry firearms within the chase, or bring sporting dogs into the same, or interfere with, or capture, or destroy any birds or animals therein.
13. No net fishing is allowed in the waters of Cowan Creek, or on the foreshores of the chase without the permission of the Trustees in writing.
14. Any person offending against any of the Regulations shall be liable to a fine not exceeding £20 (twenty pounds), and may be removed from the chase.
15. The Trustees of Ku-ring-gai Chase for the time being, or any authorised employe of the Trustees, or any member of the Police Force, shall be the person or persons authorised to enforce the foregoing Regulations.
HENRY COPELAND, J. P. ABBOTT,
JAMES C. COX, M.D., T. A. DIBBS,
E. DU FAUR, F.R.G.S., J.P.,
J. De V. LAMB,
WILLIAM JOHN LYNE,
E. A. WEIGHT,
B. H. D. WHITE, - Trustees.
REGULATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE RECREATION GROUND AT HAWKESBURY RIVER (COWAN CREEK AND PITTWATER), KNOWN AS "KU-RING-GAI CHASE." (1894, December 14). New South Wales Government Gazette (Sydney, NSW : 1832 - 1900), p. 7881. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article222193751
Interestingly, these Trig. Stations, first laid down in 1882, featured when describing the ward areas of Pittwater Council in 1992, a mere 110 years later:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1910 - PROCLAMATION
(L.S.) P. R. SINCLAIR Governor.
I, Rear Admiral PETER ROSS SINCLAIR, Governor of the State of New South Wales, with the advice of the Executive Council, and in pursuance of the Local Government Act 1919, do hereby -
(1) amend the proclamation published in Government Gazette No. 151 of 25 October, 1991, page 9045, as amended by proclamations published in Government Gazettes Nos. 36 of 13 March, 1992, and No. 51 of 24 April, 1992,
(a) by omitting from clause (3) of that proclamation the matter "hereto." and by inserting instead the matter "hereto; and"; and
(b) by inserting immediately after clause (3) of that proclamation the following clause:
"(4) divide, on and from 1 May, 1992, the Municipality of Pittwater into three wards so that the wards of the Municipality shall be as described in Schedule D hereto."; and
(c) by inserting immediately after Schedule C to that proclamation Schedule D as contained in the Schedule hereto; and
(2) determine that the number of aldermen to be elected by the electors of each of the respective wards of the Municipality of Pittwater shall be three.
Signed and sealed at Sydney, this ninth day of September, 1992.
By His Excellency's Command,
G. B. PEACOCKE,
Minister for Local Government.
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!
Schedule.
SCHEDULE D
Division of Municipality of Pittwater into Wards.
SOUTHERN WARD
Commencing at the intersection of the south-eastern prolongation of Golf Avenue and the generally eastern boundary of the Municipality: and bounded thence by that prolongation and avenue north-westerly, Barren joey Road south-westerly, Pittwater Road generally north-westerly, Cabbage Tree Road generally south-westerly, Samuel Street generally southerly, Parkland Road generally easterly. Maxwell Street generally south-westerly, Emma Street westerly and Mona Vale Road generally south-westerly to the generally south-western boundary of the Municipality; by part of that boundary generally southerly, the generally southern boundary of the Municipality generally easterly and part of the generally eastern boundary of the Municipality, aforesaid, generally northerly to the point of commencement.
CENTRAL WARD
Commencing at the intersection of the south-eastern prolongation of Golf Avenue and the generally eastern boundary of the Municipality: and bounded thence by that prolongation and avenue north-westerly, Barren joey Road south-westerly, Pittwater Road generally north-westerly. Cabbage Tree Road generally south-westerly, Samuel Street generally southerly, Parkland Road generally easterly, Maxwell Street generally south-westerly, Emma Street westerly and Mona Vale Road generally south-westerly to the generally south-western boundary of the Municipality; by part of that boundary generally south-westerly and generally north-westerly and part of the generally north-western boundary of the Municipality generally north-easterly to the generally north-western prolongation of Topham Track; by that prolongation and track generally south-easterly, West Head Road northerly, Bairne Track generally easterly and Portuguese Track and its prolongation generally north-easterly to the western shore of Pittwater; by a line north-easterly to the eastern shore of Pittwater; by that shore generally southerly to an unnamed creek flowing into the northern inlet of Salt Pan Cove; by that creek upwards to Prince Alfred Parade; by that parade generally south-westerly, Herbert Avenue generally easterly, Wallumatta Road generally south-easterly and generally easterly, Cheryl Crescent generally northerly, Belinda Place generally north-easterly, the Pathway connecting Belinda Place to Grandview Drive generally northerly, Grandview Drive generally easterly, Seaview Avenue northerly, Neptune Road easterly and Barren joey Road generally north-easterly to a point east of the eastern corner of Portion 112, Parish of Narrabeen, County of Cumberland; by a line easterly to the generally eastern boundary of the Municipality, aforesaid, and by that boundary generally southerly to the point of commencement.
NORTHERN WARD
Commencing at the intersection of the generally north-western prolongation of Topham Track and the generally north-western boundary of the Municipality: and bounded thence by that prolongation and track generally south-easterly, West Head Road northerly, Bairne Track generally easterly and Portuguese Track and its prolongation generally north-easterly to the western shore of Pittwater; by a line north-easterly to the eastern shore of Pittwater; by that shore generally southerly to an unnamed creek flowing into the northern inlet of Salt Pan Cove; by that creek upwards to Prince Alfred Parade; by that parade generally south-westerly, Herbert Avenue generally easterly, Wallumatta Road generally south-easterly and generally easterly, Cheryl Crescent generally northerly, Belinda Place generally north-easterly, the Pathway connecting Belinda Place to Grandview Drive generally northerly, Grandview Drive generally easterly, Seaview Avenue northerly, Neptune Road easterly and Barrenjoey Road generally northeasterly to a point east of the eastern corner of Portion 112, Parish of Narrabeen County of Cumberland; by a line easterly to the generally eastern boundary of the Municipality; by part of that boundary generally northerly and the generally northern and part of the generally north-western, aforesaid, boundaries of the Municipality generally westerly and generally south-westerly to the point of commencement. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1910 - PROCLAMATION (1992, September 11). Government Gazette of the State of New South Wales (Sydney, NSW : 1901 - 2001), p. 6714. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article231913266
The Basin has been a favourite camping place for many, with some bringing lavish tents, tables, chairs and all the accoutrements for a summer long stay. Camping became ‘fashionable again’ in 1885; “Camping out is now held in high favour and becoming- even quite fashionable, and this too by persons owning boats that hitherto have been looked upon as mere racing machines..” from CRUISING IN THE HAWKESBURY. (1885, January 3). Australian Town and Country Journal (NSW : 1870 - 1907), p. 38. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article71021899
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at The Basin became a fixture on the Royal Motor Yacht Club’s calendar (as the place to stay prior to their annual Regatta) and many other Sydney sailing clubs from at least 1885 and when the estuary was still called Pitt Water as well as Pittwater. There have been a few debates over the years on looking after this haven properly, one in 1906 over oyster bed leases and the lessees ordering people off these beaches and their adjacent areas and another in 1935 when the Trustees of what became part of Ku-ring-gai National Park (in 1915) tried to close the area to all the yachts that inundated the shelter during the Christmas period as they were concerned about pollution.
Easter at The Basin also became a favourite visiting time for local and visiting yacht clubs.
A FAVOURITE HOLIDAY RESORT
THE BASIN, BROKEN BAY
A FISHERMAN'S HOME AT THE BASIN, WHERE MRS. MORRIS HAS RESIDED FOR 37 YEARS.
MRS. MORRIS AND HER PETS.
ENTRANCE TO THE HAWKESBURY RIVER. -THE BARRANJOEY LIGHTHOUSE.
HEAD OF THE BASIN. THE BASIN, BROKEN BAY, NEW SOUTH WALES.
BAY VIEW, PITTWATER. (possibly included here as the photographer was transported to The Basin from the Bayview Wharf)
AN IDEAL CAMPING GROUND, HAWKESBURY RIVER.
A FAVOURITE HOLIDAY RESORT. (1903, December 30). The Sydney Mail and New South Wales Advertiser (NSW : 1871 - 1912), , p. 1706. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article164902107
YACHTSMEN'S FRIEND. THE LATE MRS. MORRIS.
Mrs. Mary Ann Morris, better known to Sydney yachtsmen as "Sally" or "Peggy," died on Monday last at her home at the Basin, Broken Bay, where she had resided for the past 63 years. Her death will be regretted by the yachting fraternity of Sydney, as her hut was a port of call for yachtsmen, when visiting Broken Bay, and they obtained from her supplies of fresh milk and eggs.
Mrs. Morris was the wife of the late Dicey Morris, and, prior to 1867, resided with her husband at Balmoral Beach. About that time her husband sold wood to Admiral Hornby's Flying Squadron during its visit to Sydney, and, with the money thus made, he built the hut at the Basin, Broken Bay, in which Mrs. Morris lived. The couple went to live in this hut at the Basin In 1868, and the husband engaged in fishing there. He did not live long after settling at Broken Bay, and his boat was acquired by a fisherman named Sam Strongman, who also lived at the Basin.
Mrs. Morris kept a few cows and fowls, and was always ready to supply visiting yachts-men with milk and eggs. She also often baked a very welcome damper for them. She adopted three lads at different times, one of whom was with her up to the time of her death. She possessed a good collection of yachting pictures, and recognised every yacht as it dropped anchor In the Basin. Her memory for faces was also very good, and she never forgot the owner of a yacht which had visited the Basin.
She was known to many as "Peggy," while to others she was better known as "Sally." Amongst the oldest members of the yachting fraternity who were well acquainted with Mrs. Morris were the late Mr. H. C. Dangar, the late Mr. James Milson, the late Mr. Grafton Ross, the late Mr. Jack Want, and the late Sir James Fairfax and their various successors, including Mr. F. J. Jackson, who owned the property at the back of the reservation which was subsequently resumed by the Kuringgai Chase Trust.YACHTSMEN'S FRIEND. (1921, June 9 - Thursday).The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), , p. 9. Retrieved fromhttp://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article15960831
"PEGGY' MEMORIAL
The memorial. In the form of a sundial, erected by Sydney yachtsmen- at "The Basin," Pittwater, to the late Mrs. Morris, well known to all visitors to Broken Bay as "Peggy" will be unveiled at noon tomorrow (Easter Sunday) by Mr. Alfred G. Milson. A large fleet of yachts and cruising craft journeyed to tho Bay for tho Easter holidays, and a good muster of yachtsman is expected at the function. Mr. Paul Ross, commodore R.P.A. Y.C.. is hon, treasurer to the fund, and will be pleased to receive further contributions, as the amount already subscribed Is far from sufficient to cover expenses. "PEGGY' MEMORIAL (1922, April 16). The Sun (Sydney, NSW : 1910 - 1954), , p. 7. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article223948591
PEGGY OF THE BASIN.
A sundial mounted on a trachyte pedestal was unveiled as a memorial to the late Mrs. Morris at The Basin, Pittwater, Broken Bay, on Easter Sunday by Mr. Arthur Milson, of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, in the presence of a number of yachtsmen, by whom the funds for its erection were subscribed. Mrs. Morris, who was known to and respected by sailing men as Peggy, lived at The Basin for many years, and was a general favorite. She made it her business and pleasure in life to see to. the comfort of the campers at that favored spot, and her death last year was a great loss to frequenters of the place. PEGGY OF THE BASIN. (1922, April 26).Referee (Sydney, NSW : 1886 - 1939), , p. 5. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article127924554
IN HONOUR OF 'SALLY.'
At the Basin, Broken Bay, recently, a sun-dial was unveiled by Mr. A. G. Milson in the presence of a large number of boating men in honour of the late Mrs. Morris ('Sally'), who for: very many years was a friend of the yachtsmen who visited that beautiful spot-. No title (1922, May 10). Sydney Mail (NSW : 1912 - 1938), , p. 32. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article169770154
Unveiling Memorial to Mrs. Morris (Sally) - The Basin, Broken Bay - Easter 1922.
SUNDIAL to the memory of Mrs. Morris ("Sally") at Kuringai Chase.
The Basin has also been considered a favourite spot for a picnic. On November 22nd 1954 many local groups and organisations took a larger then usual group westwards;
Legacy Children Had A Real Picnic; The appetites of 1,064 Legacy children at a picnic at The Basin, Pittwater, yesterday, astonished the organisers. The children demolished 6,000 bottles of soft drink. 6,000 sandwiches and bread rolls, 6,000 cakes, and 2,000 pieces of fruit. The picnic was organised by the Legacy Club of Sydney, the Broken Bay branch of the Royal Motor Yacht Club, the Volunteer Coastal Patrol, and The Kuring gai Motor Yacht Club. The yacht clubs and the Volunteer Coastal Patrol provided the food and 70 cruisers to take the children from Church Point to The Basin and back. And 167 cars and buses were used to take the children from Legacy House, city, to Church Point and back. About 300 adults looked after the children BOY'S 13 BOTTLES; Mr Frank Grace, of the Royal Motor Yacht Club, said "The food the children ate was colossal "One small boy in my group boasted that he had drunk 13 bottles of soft drink."
Legacy Children Had A Real Picnic. (1954, November 22). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 3. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article18449781
The Basin today accommodates up to 400 campers. The fee has risen a little since 1935’s 5 shillings a tent per week but it’s still great value for families and a delight for children. Palm Beach Ferries runs there daily should you wish to have a picnic yourself and it’s quieter during the week; you may even hear some of the echoes from those who dwelled there in yesteryears or smell their billy tea.
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Across the blue water for a camping holiday
PACKING LINEN in the aluminium bath at home in Willoughby, Sydney, are Roy Dutch, his wife Olive, daughters Eileen and Lois. In adjoining room, packing cutlery and kitchen utensils, are daughters Mavis and Enid. Mrs. Dutch takes 10 pairs of sheets, washes a sheet a day during holiday.
LOADING UP THE TRAILER. Years of camping have taught the Dutch family discrimination in packing. They take only what is needed for comfort, leave behind non-essentials, which add to the burden of travelling and clutter up the camp. To pack and load the trailer takes more than two hours.
Camping these days does not mean roughing it, with ants in the jam and sour milk in the tea. Modern campers take with them all kinds of amenities. Here is the holiday story of one of the thousands of IMAtralian families who camp at the seaside.
FREEDOM AHEAD. With luggage for their summer camping holiday piled on the cabin-top of the launch-ferry Rambler, the Dutch family and other holiday-makers wave good-bye to Palm Beach wharf as they set off across Pittwater for The Basin, on opposite shore, 20 miles from Sydney. The Basin is a favorite ground for hundreds of camping fans, and the Dutch family have spent holidays there for years. Ferry trip - only connection with mainland - is highlight of annual pilgrimage.
DOWN THE JETTY. Before casting-off children ride on rail-trolley at Palm Beach, where car, trailer are garaged.
WHEN THE TENT IS PITCHED, Enid, Mavis, and Eileen fill their palliasse with straw. They take pillows from home, sleep under six long blankets sewn together. The long bed, which stands firmly on pipe legs, is divided into six compartments for daughters. Palliasse hay is brought in bale from home.
FIRST SWIM. While Mr. and Mrs. Dutch, and married daughter Joan, rest on the grass after making camp, the five other Dutch daughters race off for a swim in the shark-proof pool, enclosed by steel mesh. Pool is shallow for many yards from the shore, is considered perfectly safe for children.
Across the blue water for a camping holiday (1950, December 30). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article47806278
From Across the blue water for a camping holiday. (1950, December 30). The Australian Women's Weekly (1933 - 1982), p. 12. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article47806278
“Years of camping have taught the Dutch family discrimination in packing. They take only what is needed for comfort, leave behind non-essentials, which add to the burden of travelling and clutter up the camp. To pack and load the trailer takes more than two hours.
Camping these days does not mean roughing it, with ants in the jam and sour milk in the tea. Modern campers take with them all kinds of amenities. Here is the holiday story of one of the thousands of Australian families who camp at the seaside.
FREEDOM AHEAD. With luggage for their summer camping holiday piled on the cabin-top of the launch-ferry Rambler, the Dutch family and other holiday-makers wave good-bye to Palm Beach wharf as they set off across Pittwater for The Basin, on opposite shore, 20 miles from Sydney. The Basin is a favourite ground for hundreds of camping fans, and the Dutch family have spent holidays there for years. Ferry trip - only connection with mainland - is highlight of annual pilgrimage.
DOWN THE JETTY. Before casting-off children ride on rail-trolley at Palm Beach, where car, trailer are garaged.
WHEN THE TENT IS PITCHED, Enid, Mavis, and Eileen fill their palliasse with straw. They take pillows from home, sleep under six long blankets sewn together. The long bed, which stands firmly on pipe legs, is divided into six compartments for daughters. Palliasse hay is brought in bale from home.
FIRST SWIM. While Mr. and Mrs. Dutch, and married daughter Joan, rest on the grass after making camp, the five other Dutch daughters race off for a swim in the shark-proof pool, enclosed by steel mesh. Pool is shallow for many yards from the shore, is considered perfectly safe for children.
Surf Life Saving Squad At The Basin
Legacy Picnic from National Archives of Australia
The Basin in 2014
The Basin foreshore in 2016