New South Wales a Maritime History

Lake Macquarie New South Wales a Maritime History

The Maritime Museums of Australia Project Support Scheme is funded by the Australian Government through the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Department of Communications and the Arts. Lake Macquarie Maritime History

The traditional owners of the Lake Macquarie He successfully entered and collected coal, area, the Awabakal people, referred to the lake but it was only on his return to Sydney that the as Awaba, which translates to ‘flat or plain error was discovered and a new source of coal surface’. In 1800, Europeans called it Reid’s established. This was the beginning of Lake Mistake. Captain Reid, on his ship the ‘Martha’, Macquarie as a colonial settlement. travelled from Sydney in search of the Hunter River to collect coal. He had mistaken the lake’s In 1826, the name was changed to Lake entrance for the mouth of the Hunter River Macquarie in honour of the Governor of the after taking his bearings from the following day, Lachlan Macquarie. Small settlements description of the Hunter River mouth: were built around coal mines, and as the communities grew, suburbs emerged. This saw the area declared a municipality in January 1977, eventually evolving into a city in 1984. The area of Lake Macquarie is estimated at with a small island to over 110 square kilometres. It is the largest salt- water lagoon in Australia and is four times the one side and a noticeable size of Sydney Harbour with 175km of shoreline. coal seam along the southern coast line .

Researched and written by Judith Adnum.

Aerial photograph of Rathmines air base taken by Dalkeith Hilder Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

In February 1941, Catalina ‘Flying Boats’ arrived at the base, and by September 1943 the base comprised 14 Catalinas, two Seagulls, a Dornier and a Dolphin. An important centre for the Catalina seaplanes, Rathmines Air Base played a pivotal role in Australia's defensive operations during the war.xxiv The Catalina possessed an extensive range, enabling crews to call in the Navy while still maintaining contact with Japanese forces.xxvThe Rathmines RAAF seaplane base played a pivotal role in the defence of Australia in World War II, and its flying boats, specifically the Catalinas, were involved with the mining of Manila Harbour and played an important part in the Battle of the Coral Sea as well as sending supplies to the Changi prisoners of war in Singapore after the Japanese surrender. It provided training to over 200 crews during the war. xxviCatalinas were also responsible for recovery operations, retrieving Allied survivors drifting in dinghies and boats from sunken ships and downed aircraft.xxvii

The base reached its peak strength of almost 3,000 RAAF personnel in 1944‐45. This resulted in the tiny location becoming a larger centre as crews brought their families to live near them. Famous artist Sir William Dobell was commissioned to camouflage the base.xxviii

During this time, the lake was out of bounds for all non‐military persons or those without a permit. For added security, a boom net was placed at the mouth of the lake near Black Ned’s Bay east of the channel.xxix

CONTENT Contents

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Maritime History...... 4

Public Transport - Ferries...... 5

Ship Building...... 7

Recreational Sailing...... 9

Military Use (Rathmines Catalina WWII Air Base)...... 11

Fishing Industry...... 13

Industrial (coal loading, transportation of miners and coal)...... 14

Shipwrecks...... 16

Bibliographic References...... 18

Sailing Coal Point

Aerial photograph of Rathmines air base taken by Dalkeith Hilder Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

1.2 Public Transport – Ferries Boats were one of the earliest forms of transport in Lake Macquarie. Initially these were used for transporting goods‐ mainly coal and timber‐ but over time, passenger services developed. Ferries were an important form of transport around Lake Aboriginal and Torres Strait Macquarie right up until the 1950s when adequate roads became more established. The earliest passenger services began in 1876 at the northern end of the lake, now Islander maritime history known as Edgeworth. In 1887 Mr. W.W. Johnson commenced a Steam Ferry Service from a wharf near Cockle Creek Railway Station, setting down at Speers Point, Toronto, All of Lake Macquarie lies within the traditional Awabakal would craft canoes from gum trees country of the Awabakal nation. The lake has so they could spear fish from the water. Each Belmont and other southern parts of the lake. Later, the service was extended to Miller's important traditional Awabakal spiritual and canoe housed a small hearth so bait as well as cultural meanings and values, respected by the fresh catch could be cooked as soon as Wharf on Brush Creek at Young Wallsend (Edgeworth). A hinged funnel was fitted to the local Aboriginal people. Across the area are it was caught. iii Canoes could hold as many ferries to enable them to pass under the railway bridge at Cockle Creek and later more than 500 archaeological sites and places as eight people but usually only two or three which demonstrate the relationship between occupied them as they could easily tip when Watkins Bridge at Boolaroo. Travelling by ferry to Toronto Hotel was a popular Awabakal people and their country over the wind came up. The physical appearance of thousands of years. i Apart from the abundance the indigenous people attested to the abundant excursion, and Toronto Hotel was a favourite dining venue. Initially run to attract of food on the land, the Awabakal enjoyed the and healthy diet they enjoyed. Reverend food teeming from the lake. Fish, oysters, crab, Threlkeld mentions they often towered over the tourists, these commercial services were also used by residents into the 1890s. cockles, giant water lilies and lobster were European settlers. iv available. The Awabakal people gave inland tribes access to their country at least once a year for fishing and the attainment of salt. ii

Gustav Mützel [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons (illustration from: 4 Australia – William Blandowski’s Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Aborginal Australia – 1857)

Description: Wallsend Shop Assistants picnic party with ‘S.S. Maggie Johnson’, Cockle Creek, NSW, 5 March 1896 Source: Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

1.2 Public Transport – Ferries Boats were one of the earliest forms of transport in Lake Macquarie. Initially these were used for transporting goods‐ mainly coal and timber‐ but over time, passenger services developed. Ferries were an important form of transport around Lake Macquarie Public right up until Transport the 1950s when adequate – Ferriesroads became more established. The earliest passenger services began in 1876 at the northern end of the lake, now known asBoats Edgeworth. were one of the Inearliest 1887 forms Mr. of transport W.W. Johnsonat Speers commenced Point, Toronto, Belmont a Steam and other Ferry Service in Lake Macquarie. Initially these were used for southern parts of the lake. Later, the service was from a wharftransporting near goods- Cockle mainly Creek coal and Railwaytimber- but Station,extended setting to Miller’s down Wharf onat Brush Speers Creek Point, at Toronto, over time, passenger services developed. Ferries Young Wallsend (Edgeworth). A hinged funnel Belmontwere and an other important southern form of transport parts around of the lake.was Later, fitted to thethe ferries service to enable was them extended to pass to Miller's Lake Macquarie right up until the 1950s when under the railway bridge at Cockle Creek and Wharf onadequate Brush roads Creek became at moreYoung established. Wallsend (Edgeworth).later Watkins Bridge A hinged at Boolaroo. funnel Travelling was by fitted to the ferry to Toronto Hotel was a popular excursion, The earliest passenger services began in 1876 ferries to enable them to pass under the railwayand Toronto bridge Hotel at was Cockle a favourite Creek dining venue.and later at the northern end of the lake, now known Initially run to attract tourists, these commercial as Edgeworth. In 1887 Mr. W.W. Johnson Watkins Bridge at Boolaroo. Travelling by ferryservices to Toronto were also used Hotel by residents was ainto popular the commenced a Steam Ferry Service from a wharf 1890s. excursion,near and Cockle Toronto Creek Railway Hotel Station, was setting a favourite down dining venue. Initially run to attract tourists, these commercial services were also used by residents into the 1890s.

Wallsend Shop Assistants picnic party with ‘S.S. Maggie Johnson’, Cockle Creek, NSW, 5 March 1896 Source: Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle. 5

In 1888, 'Cora' transported cargo and passengers from Newcastle to Swansea. This run was on alternate days. In the same year 'Helen Taylor' operated between Pelican Flat and Cockle Creek.

In 1889, three ferries, 'Pinafore' No. 1 and No. 2, and 'Maggie Johnson' ran daily between Swansea and Cockle Creek.

In 1888, ‘Cora’ transported cargo and During World War II, boats, including the ferries, passengers from Newcastle to Swansea. This were removed from the lake. Initially, larger run was on alternate days. In the same year boats and ferries were impounded at Cockle The Wangi‘Helen Taylor’ operated Wangi between Pelican Ferry Flat Creek.Company Many were sent to Sydney ran or other three ferries, delivering groceries, mail, papers, and Cockle Creek. places as part of the Navy’s complement or to supplement ancillary service. v In 1889, three ferries, ‘Pinafore’ No. 1 and No. meat2, andand ‘Maggie bread.Johnson’ ran daily betweenThey were;Les Cox took overthe the Wangi ‘Wangi Ferry Company Wangi’ ; the ‘Wangi Pioneer’ and perhaps Swansea and Cockle Creek. about 1930. His ferries were ‘Joclyn’, ‘Wangi Pioneer’ and ‘Awa’. He offered special Saturday the mostThe Wangi Wangi well Ferry Company known ran three ‘Thenight trips Wangi to the Belmont MelvicQueen’. Theatre. A Built in 1922, originally named the ferries, delivering groceries, mail, papers, meat piano was on board, with passengers enjoying and bread. They were; the ‘Wangi Wangi’; a sing-along to and from the movies.vi the ‘Wangi Pioneer’ and perhaps the most ‘Ettalong’,well known ‘The Wangiit was Queen’. Built registered in 1922, After WWII, asNavy surplus the boats Ettalong were bought Star in 1938. From the 1940s to the originally named the ‘Ettalong’, it was registered and converted into ferries by ‘Lake Macquarie as the Ettalong Star in 1938. From the 1940s Ferries’, formed around 1946. This service ran to the 1970s, the ferry was used in Sydney for about 10 years. vii 1970s,Harbour the and changed ferry companies was twice. The used in Sydney Harbour and changed companies twice. The name was changed to Profound in 1951. Evidence of old jetties around various parts of the lake indicates people used water transport nameBy thewas late 19th Century,changed ferries were running to Profoundto get to a ferry terminal. in viii 1951. from Speers Point to Coal Point. When the railway was extended to Toronto, a regular With so much industry around the lake shore, ferry service operated to Coal Point and Carey ferries, wharves and boats used for both leisure Bay. During the 1920s the ferries made four and cargo made the lake a hive of activity from trips per day Sunday to Friday and six trips on the early 19th Century. Saturdays.

‘Wangi Pioneer’ Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

Description: ’Wangi Pioneer’ Source: Lake Macquarie History Online By the late 19th Century, ferries were running from Speers Point to Coal Point. When the railway was extended to Toronto, a regular ferry service operated to Coal Point and Carey Bay. During the 1920s the ferries made four trips per day Sunday to Friday and six trips on Saturdays.

During World War II, boats, including the ferries, were removed from the lake. Initially, larger boats and ferries were impounded at Cockle Creek. Many were sent to Sydney or other places as part of the Navy’s complement or to supplement ancillary service.v

Les Cox took over the Wangi Ferry Company about 1930. His ferries were ‘Joclyn’, ‘Wangi Pioneer’ and ‘Awa’. He offered special Saturday night trips to the Belmont Melvic Theatre. A piano was on board, with passengers enjoying a sing‐along to and from the movies. vi

Other ketches assisting in the export of timber from Cooranbong after 1875 included the ‘Free Trade’, ‘Leo’, ‘Alfred Edwards’ and ‘Agnes Rose’. The last three were first registered in 1876, and the ‘Free Trade’ a year earlier. The ‘Growler’, built by a man named Rinah, could have been one of the last of the ketches to enter the lake trade, in 1879. Fifteen or more vessels plied to and from Cooranbong during the period from 1875 to 1880. Sail‐driven ketches were gradually replaced by steam‐powered vessels of various sizes and designs. TheShip Newcastle Building Almanac of 1883 reported that 12 vessels were at that time employed in the Lake Macquarie timber trade. It should be noted that the first boat builders An even larger boat came from Mr Kenah’s on Lake Macquarie, the Awabakal, fished and shipyard in late 1877. This was the ‘Emily navigated Lake Macquarie using bark canoes. and Mary’, built for the Coulter brothers who also managed the Heart and Hand Hotel at After European settlement was well established Cooranbong. The ketch measured 60ft in length, in the area, eastern Lake Macquarie supported had a 16ft beam, and a hold of five and a half several shipyards for the transportation of coal feet. Samuel and Edwin Coulter operated a small and later timber for the Sydney markets. The fleet of ships in partnership with the Blackford steam sawmills in and around Cooranbong family, also from Cooranbong. Two years before about 1875 resulted in a sudden increase in the the ‘Emily and Mary’ was launched, the two quantity of timber available for export. Prior to families were together operating at least four this time, no more than half a dozen ketches vessels on Lake Macquarie. Two of these craft, had been simultaneously engaged in the trade, the ‘Maggie Scott’ and the ‘Queen’, seem to but now this number was inadequate. This have been used mainly to take hardwood from encouraged a number of Cooranbong residents Cooranbong to Newcastle. Kenah moved his to enter the shipping industry, and at least ten works to Swansea, where he was in business new cargo vessels were built within a period of from 1883. ix From the late 1800s through to about three years. Matthew Kenah was one of 1952, the Boyd family expanded shipbuilding at the first ship builders in the area. He opened Swansea. x a shipbuilding yard in 1874. The first vessel launched at his shipyard was probably the large Two other small ketches, named ‘Star of Peace’ ketch ‘Sea Bird’, described as ‘the fastest ketch and ‘Sea Gull’, made regular trips to Sydney. on the coast’ soon after it was launched. ‘Sea They carried a cargo of oak shingles averaging Bird’ boasted a 50ft keel, a 16ft beam, and a approximately 65,000 shingles for each vessel. hold of five feet. It was built for the Tobin brothers The ‘Sea Gull’ met with an untimely end in the of Mandalong and Cooranbong. spring of 1876, while endeavouring to cross the lake entrance bar. A newspaper report of the incident states that the two vessels left Sydney together at three o’clock one morning, bound for Lake Macquarie. The ‘Star of Peace’ outsailed the other and arrived at the lake heads in time to have the benefit of a flood tide. The ‘Sea Gull’ arrived two hours later, and her skipper decided to wait outside the bar for the next high tide. A gale blew up and the vessel was driven onto a reef and wrecked. All hands on board drowned.

James Lewis Boyd and Son ship building yard Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

The building of boats in Lake Macquarie was itself an important facet of the timber industry. William Batten constructed a number of small boats at the northern end of the lake. The one he built for Mr Speers was the largest vessel he ever attempted, and it was named ‘William Brooks’ in memory of the original landholder of the Speers Point estate. Patrick Moynahan and son Cornelius built vessels at Cardiff

states that the two vessels left Sydney together at three o'clock one morning, bound for Lake Macquarie. The ‘Star of Peace’ outsailed the other and arrived at the lake heads in time to have the benefit of a flood tide. The ‘Sea Gull’ arrived two hours later, and her skipper decided to wait outside the bar for the next high tide. A gale Other ketches assisting in the export of timber The building of boats in Lake Macquarie was blew up and thefrom vessel Cooranbong was after driven 1875 included onto the ‘Free a reef anditself an wrecked. important facet ofAll the handstimber industry. on board Trade’, ‘Leo’, ‘Alfred Edwards’ and ‘Agnes Rose’. William Batten constructed a number of small drowned. The last three were first registered in 1876, and boats at the northern end of the lake. The one the ‘Free Trade’ a year earlier. The ‘Growler’, he built for Mr Speers was the largest vessel built by a man named Rinah, could have been he ever attempted, and it was named ‘William Other ketches assistingone of the last inof the the ketches export to enter theof lake timber Brooks’from in Cooranbong memory of the original after landholder 1875 of included trade, in 1879. Fifteen or more vessels plied to the Speers Point estate. Patrick Moynahan and and from Cooranbong during the period from son Cornelius built vessels at Cardiff Point for the the ‘Free Trade’,1875 ‘Leo’, to 1880. ‘Alfred Sail-driven ketchesEdwards’ were gradually and ‘Agneslake and Rose’.trade with NSWThe and last New threeZealand. xi were first replaced by steam-powered vessels of various William Batten built a 90ft ship using local timber. registered in 1876,sizes andand designs. the The ‘Free Newcastle Trade’ Almanac a of year earlier.Apart from the The Monaghan ‘Growler’, brothers shipyards, built by a man 1883 reported that 12 vessels were at that time the Cardiff sawmill also had facilities for building named Rinah, couldemployed have in the Lake been Macquarie one timber of thetrade. last ofand thelaunching ketches small ships. to xii enter the lake trade, in 1879. Fifteen or more vessels plied to and from Cooranbong during the period from 1875 to 1880. Sail‐driven ketches were gradually replaced by steam‐powered vessels of various sizes and designs. The Newcastle Almanac of 1883 reported that James Lewis Boyd and Son ship building yard 12 vessels wereSource: at thatLake Macquarie time History employedOnline in the Lake Macquarie timber trade.

James Lewis Boyd and Son ship building yard Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

Point for the lake and trade with NSW and New Zealand.xi William Batten built a 90ft ship using local timber. Apart from the Monaghan brothers shipyards, the Cardiff sawmill also had facilities for building and launching small ships.xii

states that the two vessels left Sydney together at three o'clock one morning, bound for Lake Macquarie. The ‘Star of Peace’ outsailed the other and arrived at1.4 the Recreationallake Sailing heads in time to have the benefit of a flood tide. The ‘Sea Gull’ arrived two hours later, and her skipper decided to wait outside the bar for the next high tide.Regattas A gale have a long tradition on Lake Macquarie. At the turn of the 20th Century, blew up and the vessel was driven onto a reef and wrecked. All hands on board Lake Macquarie Park (now Speers Point Park) was the most popular spot on Lake drowned. Recreational Sailing Macquarie and around Newcastle. It was referred to as the 'lungs' of the mining Other ketches assisting in the export of timber from Cooranbong after 1875 included Regattas have a long tradition on Lake the ‘Free Trade’, ‘Leo’, ‘Alfred Edwards’ and ‘Agnes Rose’. The last three townshipswere first ofMacquarie. Wallsend, At the turn of the 20th Plattsburg, Century, West Wallsend and Minmi. Camping was Lake Macquarie Park (now Speers Point Park) registered in 1876, and the ‘Free Trade’ a year earlier. The ‘Growler’, built by a man was the most popular spot on Lake Macquarie permitted andand around visitors Newcastle. It was flockedreferred to as the to the lake’s shore. A fresh water spring was located ‘lungs’ of the mining townships of Wallsend, named Rinah, could have been one of the last of the ketches to enter the lake trade, Plattsburg, West Wallsend and Minmi. Camping was permitted and visitors flocked to the lake’s in 1879. Fifteen or more vessels plied to and from Cooranbong during thenear period the jetty,shore. A freshsupplying water spring was located the near theneeds of the campers and visitors. jetty, supplying the needs of the campers and from 1875 to 1880. Sail‐driven ketches were gradually replaced by steam‐powered visitors. vessels of various sizes and designs. The Newcastle Almanac of 1883 reported that Foreshore gathering, Speers Point, 26 January 1900 Source: Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle. 12 vessels were at that time employed in the Lake Macquarie timber trade.

The yacht ‘Vera’ on Lake Macquarie won many regattas in the late 1890sDescription: and early Foreshore gathering, Speers Point, 26 January 1900 Source: Ralph Snowball 1900.Source: Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle. photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

To attend the Speers Point regatta, many walked from Cockle Creek or used a variety of vehicles including steamers, bullock wagons, buggies, sulkies, horsesxiii and any water craft ‘from a tiny canoe to a lugger’xiv. In 1903, increased popularity of the event led to an annual passenger train between Wallsend and Cockle Creekxv. In 1912, the tramline was extended to Speers Point Parkxvi. By 1939, trains, trams, ferries, buses and cars brought over 12,000 people to the regattaxvii. By the late 1940s, the Anniversary Day Regatta disappeared with the growth of regattas at neighbouring clubsxviii. In the mid‐20th Century, recreational boat building flourished. Les Steel built three yachts that won the Sydney to Hobart race, with his vessel, Rani, winning the first ever race in 1945.xix

7 James Lewis Boyd and Son ship building yard Source: Lake Macquarie History Online The yacht ‘Vera’ on Lake Macquarie won many regattas in the late 1890s and early 1900.Source: Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty The building of boats in Lake Macquarie was itself an important facet of Library,the timber University of Newcastle. industry. William Batten constructed a number of small boats at the northern end of the lake. The one he built for Mr Speers was the largest vessel he ever attempted, and it was named ‘William Brooks’ in memory of the original landholder of the Speers Point estate. Patrick Moynahan and son Cornelius built vessels atAs Cardiff the road improved, crowds arrived in horse drawn buses and drays for the Sailing and Sculling5 Regattas held each year on Anniversary Day, 26th January, the first having been held with Mr Spiers' permission in January 1880. At this time there were even horse races held in the park. All traffic entering the park had to pass through Mr Spiers' sliprails, now the site of Lake Macquarie Council Administration Building. In 1904 the Annual Regatta saw 10,000 people and hundreds of horses and vehicles in the park, pointing to the need for additional land.

As the road improved, crowds arrived in horse ferries, buses and cars brought over 12,000 drawn buses and drays for the Sailing and people to the regatta. xvii By the late 1940s, the Sculling Regattas held each year on Anniversary Anniversary Day Regatta disappeared with the Day, 26th January, the first having been held growth of regattas at neighbouring clubs. xviii with Mr Spiers’ permission in January 1880. At this time there were even horse races held in In the mid-20th Century, recreational boat the park. All traffic entering the park had to pass building flourished. Les Steel built three yachts through Mr Speers’ sliprails, now the site of Lake that won the Sydney to Hobart race, with his xix Macquarie Council Administration Building. In vessel, Rani, winning the first ever race in 1945. 1904 the Annual Regatta saw 10,000 people The Lakefest Aquatic Week is now an annual and hundreds of horses and vehicles in the park, event held on Lake Macquarie. A number of pointing to the need for additional land. events occur during the week-long celebrations To attend the Speers Point regatta, many walked which run in February. The event is a from Cockle Creek or used a variety of vehicles collaborative effort involving the Royal Motor including steamers, bullock wagons, buggies, Yacht Club Toronto, Lake Macquarie Yacht Club, sulkies, horses xiii and any water craft ‘from a Wangi Amateur Sailing Club, Belmont 16’s and xx tiny canoe to a lugger’. xiv In 1903, increased Toronto Rotary Sunrise. popularity of the event led to an annual passenger train between Wallsend and Cockle Creek. xv In 1912, the tramline was extended to Speers Point Park. xvi By 1939, trains, trams,

Struen Marie’ Sydney-Hobart Race Winner 1951 at Speers Point, built by Les Steel Source: Gary Steel collection

‘Struen Marie’ Sydney-Hobart Race Winner 1951 built by Les Steel Source: Gary Steel collection

The Lakefest Aquatic Week is now an annual event held on Lake Macquarie. A number of events occur during the week‐long celebrations which run in February. The event is a collaborative effort involving the Royal Motor Yacht Club Toronto, Lake Macquarie Yacht Club, Wangi Amateur Sailing Club, Belmont 16's and Toronto Rotary Sunrise.xx

1.5 Military use (Rathmines Catalina WWII Air Base)

With the advent of WWII in 1939, the RAAF chose 32 hectares in Rathmines as the site for their new Flying Boat Base and Pilot Training School. Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) World War II Flying Boat Base became operational when 9 Squadron transferred with Seagull flying boat from Point Cook to Rathmines, s. xxi xxii The RAAF Base at Rathmines became the largest RAAF flying boat base in the Southern Hemisphere and was a training and repair base and a key communications centre.xxiii

Military use (Rathmines Catalina WWII Air Base)

With the advent of WWII in 1939, the RAAF In February 1941, Catalina ‘Flying Boats’ arrived chose 32 hectares in Rathmines as the site for at the base, and by September 1943 the base their new Flying Boat Base and Pilot Training comprised 14 Catalinas, two Seagulls, a Dornier School. Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) World and a Dolphin. An important centre for the War II Flying Boat Base became operational Catalina seaplanes, Rathmines Air Base played when 9 Squadron transferred with Seagull a pivotal role in Australia’s defensive operations flying boat from Point Cook to Rathmines. xxi during the war. xxiv The Catalina possessed xxii The RAAF Base at Rathmines became the an extensive range, enabling crews to call in largest RAAF flying boat base in the Southern the Navy while still maintaining contact with Hemisphere and was a training and repair base Japanese forces. xxv The Rathmines RAAF and a key communications centre. xxiii seaplane base played a pivotal role in the defence of Australia in World War II, and its flying boats, specifically the Catalinas, were

Aerial photograph of Rathmines air base taken by Dalkeith Hilder Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

involved with the mining of Manila Harbour and Post war, the base continued operating as a played an important part in the Battle of the ground-training base and an officers’ training Coral Sea as well as sending supplies to the school from 12 April 1950. Rathmines continued Changi prisoners of war in Singapore after the as a military base and was used in the 1950s as Post war, theJapanese base surrender. continued It provided operating training to over as a grounda military training‐training base when base National and Service an officers' 200 crews during the war. xxvi Catalinas were also was introduced. training schoolresponsible from for recovery 12 April operations, 1950. retrieving Rathmines continued as a military base and was used in theAllied 1950s survivors as drifting a military in dinghies training and boats base whenCatalinas National were eventually Service phased out,was but introduced. from from sunken ships and downed aircraft. xxvii the mid to late 1950s, Rathmines RAAF Base continued to be staffed by RAAF personnel The base reached its peak strength of almost and used as a National Service training base. It Catalinas were3,000 RAAF eventually personnel in phased 1944-45. This out, resulted but fromofficially the closed mid in to 1960. late xxx In 1950s, 2005, the Rathminesformer in the tiny location becoming a larger centre Rathmines Air Base was heritage listed by the RAAF Baseas continued crews brought theirto be families staffed to live near by RAAF personnelNew South Wales and State used Government. as a National xxxi xxxii Service training base.them. ItFamous officially artist Sir closedWilliam Dobell in 1960.was xxx In 2005, the former Rathmines Air Base commissioned to camouflage the base. xxviii In January 1952, the Catalina was declared was heritage listed by the New South Wales Statesurplus Government.to requirements but therexxxi xxxii is still immense During this time, the lake was out of bounds interest in the Catalinas. The annual Rathmines for all non-military persons or those without a Catalina Festival is held to commemorate the rich permit. For added security, a boom net was history of the base. In January placed1952, at thethe mouth Catalina of the lake was near Blackdeclared Ned’s surplus to requirements but there is still immense interestBay east of thein channel.the Catalinas. xxix The annual Rathmines Catalina Festival is held to commemorate the rich history of the base.

Catalinas in flight. Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

Catalinas in flight Source: Lake Macquarie History Online 1.6 Fishing Industry

Fishing in Lake Macquarie has been occurring for as long as the history of the lake has been recorded. People of the Awabakal nation enjoyed the plethora of seafood found in the lake. A commercial fishing industry developed about 1850, and expanded during the second half of the 20th Century. A report in the Newcastle Chroniclexxxiii illustrates the abundance of fish and the industry evolving around fishing during this time. Lake Macquarie Fish Curing Establishment, situated around the current Brightwaters area, was producing cooked and hermetically sealed fresh tins of fish for both the domestic and export markets. They were able to produce about ‘half a ton per diem’. It is unclear how long this business continued.

Fishing Industry

Fishing in Lake Macquarie has been occurring Further north, two Chinese fishermen operated for as long as the history of the lake has been their own fishing concerns at Pelican Flats using recorded. People of the Awabakal nation enjoyed large nets. These fisheries operated from 1863 the plethora of seafood found in the lake. A until about 1873. commercial fishing industry developed about 1850, and expanded during the second half Fishing operators were becoming more prolific of the 20th Century. A report in the Newcastle between Belmont and Swansea during these Chronicle xxxiii illustrates the abundance of years as the demand from Sydney, Melbourne fish and the industry evolving around fishing and China increased. Furtherduring north, this time. two Lake Chinese Macquarie Fish fishermen Curing operatedFish were netted theiror caught own on hand fishing lines from concerns at Pelican Establishment, situated around the current boats or the shore for pleasure or profit. There Flats usingBrightwaters large area, nets. was producing These cooked fisheries and operatedwere established from and renowned 1863 fishing until dynasties about 1873. hermetically sealed fresh tins of fish for both the – often also involved in shipbuilding. xxxiv Prawning domestic and export markets. They were able to and squid fishing were, and continue to be, Fishing produceoperators about ‘half were a ton per becoming diem’. It is unclear more lake prolific pursuits. An between annual ‘mullet run’Belmont still occurs and Swansea how long this business continued. around Easter. It is common knowledge that during these years as the demand frommarine Sydney, life has diminished Melbourne but this does and not deter China increased. keen anglers from trying their luck.

Repairing fishing nets, Belmont 1917 (photographer Mr May) Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

Fish were netted or caught on hand lines from boats or the shore for pleasure or profit. There were established and renowned fishing dynasties –often also involved in shipbuilding.xxxiv Prawning and squid fishing were, and continue to be, lake pursuits. An annual ‘mullet run’ still occurs around Easter. It is common knowledge that marine life has diminished but this does not deter keen anglers from trying their luck.

Industrial (coal loading, transportation of miners and coal) The first official coal discovery in Australia was in operations were restricted owing to the shallow 1791 by escaped convicts just south of the Hunter channel at Swansea. Threlkeld had difficulty River mouth – possibly at Glenrock Lagoon. attracting miners, as the government refused to supply convicts and the A. A. Co. sought to The colonial government controlled attempts at stifle competition. By 1844, Threlkeld’s estate mining for the first part of the 1800s. Until 1838, was severely in debt and was sold. The mine private mining was not allowed unless a permit was worked under lease by Henry R. Whittell was obtained from the Governor. and later by R.M. Robey, although it was often Reverend Lancelot Threlkeld moved his mission idle. It was worked as South Hetton Colliery as xxxv for the local Awabakal people from Belmont late as 1906. to Coal Point. He began to mine coal and Catherine Hill Bay became a place of won mining rights in 1841 after challenging the significance in both mining and maritime history monopoly of the Australian Agricultural Company. in Lake Macquarie. Two Sydney merchants, Threlkeld began mining coal at the Ebenezer Jacob Levi Montifiore and Thomas Hale, pit on the south-west side of Coal Point at purchased 265 acres of land which bordered the present Threlkeld Reserve. The mine was the southern part of the bay. It was here they worked without machinery and the skips discovered a great source of coal and, under were run on wooden rails, with coal loaded the name of New Wallsend Coal Company, into schooners from a wooden jetty. Mining mined the seam until 1877.

Wallarah [launched 1903] at Catherine Hill Bay. Source: Lake Macquarie History Online

Coal loadingAfter jetty, laying dormantCatherine for approximately Hill Bay, 11 years, NSW, part of the 1894Ralph land was purchased Snowball by photograph, Norm Barney Collection, the Wallarah Coal Company. Thomas Parton was appointed mine manager, and Cultural Collections,immediately commenced Auchmuty construction Library, of a wharf roughlyUniversity in the same ofplace. Newcastle. The new wharf extended to a distance of 1020 feet and 30 feet above the high‐water mark, which enabled vessels of 3000 tons to dock.xxxvii

In January 1890, the first shipment of coal was loaded from the wharf. The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate in January 1894 asserted that ‘having their own wharf, their own ships and their own railway’, the Wallarah Coal Company ‘enjoyed special advantages’xxxviii. One of the company colliers, the ‘Wallarah” blew ashore onto nearby rocks in April 1914 and was totally wrecked.

J & A Brown Abermain Seaham Collieries Ltd took over the Wallarah Coal Company in 1956 and continued mining and shipping coal until the late 1990s when the mine finally closed. There was some talk in 2013 that mining would resume, but this has not eventuated.xxxix

The jetty remains a tourist attraction, though it is in need of serious repair after a fire raged through the area in 2013. As well as damaging the jetty, the fire destroyed the mine manager’s cottage which stood at the top of the hill overlooking the jetty.xl

This is significant in that the seam was close Coal Company ‘enjoyed special advantages’. to the water’s edge, and Thomas Hale in 1873 xxxviii One of the company colliers, the ‘Wallarah” built a pile jetty for the transportation of coal via blew ashore onto nearby rocks in April 1914 the company-owned steam collier. xxxvi and was totally wrecked. After laying dormant for approximately 11 years, J & A Brown Abermain Seaham Collieries Ltd part of the land was purchased by the Wallarah took over the Wallarah Coal Company in 1956 Coal Company. Thomas Parton was appointed and continued mining and shipping coal until mine manager, and immediately commenced the late 1990s when the mine finally closed. construction of a wharf roughly in the same place. There was some talk in 2013 that mining would The new wharf extended to a distance of 1020 resume, but this has not eventuated. xxxix feet and 30 feet above the high-water mark, which enabled vessels of 3000 tons to dock. xxxvii The jetty remains a tourist attraction, though it is in need of serious repair after a fire raged In January 1890, the first shipment of coal was through the area in 2013. As well as damaging loaded from the wharf. The Newcastle Morning the jetty, the fire destroyed the mine manager’s Herald and Miners’ Advocate in January 1894 cottage which stood at the top of the hill asserted that ‘having their own wharf, their overlooking the jetty. xl own ships and their own railway’, the Wallarah

Coal loading jetty, Catherine Hill Bay, NSW, 1894Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

Coal loading jetty, Catherine Hill Bay, NSW, 1894Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle. Coal loading jetty, Catherine Hill Bay, NSW, 1894Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

1.8 Shipwrecks There have been numerous incidents of shipping accidents, though few have resulted in fatalities. The first notable shipwreck in Lake Macquarie was that of the schooner ‘Catherine Hill’, in 1867. The mate and the steward drowned. The place where this occurred is now known as Catherine Hill Bay after the ship.

Twelve years later five lives were lost when the ‘Barrabool’ rammed into the ‘Bonnie’ ‘Dundee’, sinking it immediately. One body was recovered at the time (Sarah Brown), another a few days later 12 miles away from the scene (Ellen Dugdale) and almost Shipwrecksthree weeks later the remains thought to be that of Cabin Boy George Pardell were found inside a shark captured at Barrenjoey, approximately 35 miles south of There have been numerous incidents of shipping Twelve years later five lives were lost when the originalaccidents, site. though few The have resultedbodies in fatalities. of ship’sthe ‘Barrabool’ stewardess rammed into the Abigail‘Bonnie’ White and Sarah Brown’s The first notable shipwreck in Lake Macquarie ‘Dundee’, sinking it immediately. One body was daughter,was that Margaret, of the schooner ‘Catherine were Hill’, neverin 1867. found.recovered at theThree time (Sarah inquests Brown), another were held, one finding the The mate and the steward drowned. The place a few days later 12 miles away from the scene where this occurred is now known as Catherine (Ellen Dugdale) and almost three weeks later the captainHill of Bay the after the ‘Bonnie ship. Dundee’ atremains fault, thought the to be next that of Cabin exonerating Boy George him and the final one again citing him as responsible.xli Pardell were found inside a shark captured at

The ship ‘Barrabool’ [March], 1879. Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

In 1908, seven men drowned when the steam tug Advance and the barque ‘Iverna’ collided at Bird Island Point. The sole survivor, mate Alfred Thomas Willis, washed ashore at Redhead Beach suffering abrasions and shock. The inquest found that Alexander MacKenzie, the ships captain was in error and responsible for the collision.xlii

Twelve years later five lives were lost when the ‘Barrabool’ rammed into the ‘Bonnie’ ‘Dundee’, sinking it immediately. One body was recovered at the time (Sarah Brown), another a few days later 12 miles away from the scene (Ellen Dugdale) and almost three weeks later the remains thought to be that of Cabin Boy George Pardell were found inside a shark captured at Barrenjoey, approximately 35 miles south of Barrenjoey, approximately 35 miles south of the In 1908, seven men drowned when the steam the original site. The bodies of ship’s stewardess Abigail White and Sarahoriginal site. Brown’s The bodies of ship’s stewardess tug Advance and the barque ‘Iverna’ collided at Abigail White and Sarah Brown’s daughter, Bird Island Point. The sole survivor, mate Alfred daughter, Margaret, were never found. Three inquests were held, oneMargaret, finding were never the found. Three inquests Thomas Willis, washed ashore at Redhead were held, one finding the captain of the ‘Bonnie Beach suffering abrasions and shock. The Dundee’ at fault, the next exonerating him and inquest found that Alexander MacKenzie, the captain of the ‘Bonnie Dundee’ at fault, the next exonerating him andthe the final one final again citing one him as responsible. xli ships captain was in error and responsible for again citing him as responsible.xli the collision. xlii

A boat named Miami, Toronto NSW 1950

The ship ‘Barrabool’ [March], 1879. Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.

Conclusion Bibliographic references The Lake has been a source of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sustenance, livelihood and pleasure for maritime history the people of Lake Macquarie from the i Sustainable Management of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in earliest time of the Awabakal people, the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area: Lake Macquarie through colonial settlement and the Aboriginal Heritage Management Strategy. Boolaroo, Lake Macquarie tough times of the Great Depression. ii Brown, Paul (2015) Belmont: from the Dreaming to Federation While the depths of its waters and iii Threlkeld, Lancelot E. (1974) Australian Reminiscences and the richness of the resources found Papers. Ed. Niel Gunson, Canberra. on its vast shores had the potential iv In Brown, Paul (2015) Belmont: from the Dreaming to Federation ( p 10) for industry and the transportation of goods to outside markets, the narrow ocean entrance provided a significant Public Transport – Ferries barrier to growth and expansion. The v Lee, Nola, Myra Burgess and Lorna Pearson. (1987). Wangi eventual development of road and Wangi and its people: a local history. Wangi Wangi, NSW: rail transportation opened up the Southlakes Christian Women’s Group. Lake Macquarie region to settlers, vi https://history.lakemac.com.au/page-local-history. aspx?pid=1085&vid=20&tmpt=narrative&narid=3967 businesses, tourists and pleasure vii Ferries of Lake Macquarie / researched & compiled by seekers, though it brought an end Doreen Phillips for the East Lake Macquarie Historical to commercial boat building and a Society. 2008 significant decline in ferry transportation. viii https://history.lakemac.com.au/page-local-history. aspx?pid=1085&vid=20&tmpt=narrative&narid=79 The waters of Lake Macquarie continue to provide enjoyment for boating enthusiasts and tourists. It is a mecca Shipbuilding for aquatic sports of all kinds, producing ix Hartley, Dulcie Shipping on Lake Macquarie [Fennell Bay, NSW :Dulcie Hartley, 2001] p.5 a number of outstanding sportsmen and x Hartley, Dulcie Shipping on Lake Macquarie [Fennell Bay, women who have achieved international NSW :Dulcie Hartley, 2001]Ibid success. Our maritime history in the xi Ibid p. 4 second half of the twentieth century has xii https://history.lakemac.com.au/page-local-history. centred on these recreational aspects aspx?pid=1085&vid=20&tmpt=narrative&narid=5086 and the tourism it brings to the city, making Lake Macquarie a much desired area for residents and visitors.

18 Recreational Sailing Fishing Industry xiii Hartley, Dulcie Lake Macquarie Memories: Fennell Bay, xxxiii https://history.lakemac.com.au/page-local-history. NSW: Dulcie Hartley,1998, p.75. aspx?pid=1085&vid=20&tmpt=narrative&narid=3623 xiv Wallsend & Plattsburg Sun, 1893 xxxiv https://www.theherald.com.au/story/3171722/lake- macquaries-fishing-dynasties/ xv Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate, 19 January 1903. Retrieved July 2018 https://trove.nla.gov. au/ xvi Ibid, 26 December, 1913 Industrial (coal loading, transportation of miners and coal) xvii Ibid, 31 January, 1939 xxxv https://history.lakemac.com.au/page-local-history. xviii Ibid, 12 &16 January, 1940 & 26 January,1945 aspx?pid=1085&vid=20&tmpt=narrative&narid=3564 xix Thomas, Fred Boat-builders of Lake Macquarie and xxxvi Architectural Projects Pty Limited & Lake Macquarie beyond [Toronto, NSW] ; Lake Macquarie & district (NSW). Council 1999, Heritage assessment Historical Society, 2006.p. 25 conservation plan for Catherine Hill Bay, Architectural xx https://www.nabo.com.au/whats-on/event/lakefest-2017- Projects Pty. Ltd, Surry Hills, NSW toronto xxxvii Ibid xxxviii Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW: 1876 - 1954) The Wallarah Colliery an Military Use (Rathmines Catalina enterprising company. The Miners’ Earnings. No. II. WWII Air Base) Tue 23 Jan 1894 Page 3 xxi Vincent, David, 1950- (1978). Catalina chronicle: a history xxxix https://www.theherald.com.au/story/1625002/poll-new- of RAAF operations. D. Vincent, [Paradise, S.A.] plan-to-mine-coal-at-catho/ xxiixxii Newton, John (John T.) & Haslam, P. A, (ed.) RAAF xl https://www.theherald.com.au/story/1849734/fire- Rathmines: an authentic history of this famous wartime destroys-wallarah-house-at-catherine-hill-bay-photos- flying boat base. Readon Publishing, Boolaroo, N.S.W, video/ 1978. xxiii Howard, Alec 2014, Rathmines…revisited: former WWII Flying Boat Base [Alec & Joy Howard] Rathmines, NSW Shipwrecks xix xxivHoward, Alec N & Howard, Joy (2009). Rathmines xli Sydney Morning Herald (NSW: 1842 - 1954), Saturday 22 - not forgotten: the story of the World War II Flying Boat March 1879, page 6 Base,1939-1961 (1st ed). Resonant Media & Design], xlii Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate (NSW: [Newcastle, N.S.W 1876 - 1954), Thursday 4 February 1909, page 4 xxv Riddell, Jack (1995). Catalina squadrons, first and furthest: recounting the operations of RAAF Catalinas, May 1941 to March 1943 (Rev. ed). J. Riddell, Murwillumbah, N.S.W Acknowledgements xxvi Howard, Alec 2014, Rathmines…revisited: former WWII Researched and written by Judith Adnum from funding Flying Boat Base [Alec & Joy Howard] Rathmines, NSW provided by the Maritime Museums of Australia Project Support Scheme. xxvii Vincent, David, 1950- (1978). Catalina chronicle: a history of RAAF operations. D. Vincent, [Paradise, S.A.] Contributors xxviii Howard, Alec 2014, Rathmines…revisited: former WWII Flying Boat Base [Alec & Joy Howard] Rathmines, NSW Special thanks to Ann Crump, Judy Messiter, Lyn de Sylva. xxix Ibid xxx Newton, John (John T.) & Haslam, P. A, (ed.) (1978). RAAF Rathmines: an authentic history of this famous wartime flying boat base. Readon Publishing, Boolaroo, N.S.W xxxi Howard, Alec N & Howard, Joy (2009). Rathmines - not forgotten: the story of the World War II Flying Boat Base,1939-1961 (1st ed). Resonant Media & Design], [Newcastle, N.S.W xxxii https://www.catalinaflying.org.au/rathmines.htm

19 1.8 Shipwrecks There have been numerous incidents of shipping accidents, though few have resulted in fatalities. The first notable shipwreck in Lake Macquarie was that of the schooner ‘Catherine Hill’, in 1867. The mate and the steward drowned. The place where this occurred is now known as Catherine Hill Bay after the ship.

LAKE MACQUARIE A MARITIME HISTORY

Prepared by Lake Macquarie City Council 126-138 Main Road Speers Point NSW 2284 Box 1906 Hunter Region Mail Centre NSW 2310 (02) 4921 0333 [email protected] lakemac.com.au facebook.com/lakemaccity twitter.com/lakemac instagram.com/ourlakemac

ISBN-13: 978-0-646-99397-3

L&L 23134 The ship ‘Barrabool’ [March], 1879. Ralph Snowball photograph, Norm Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle.