THE BATTLE OF EVERYDAY LIFE
Many country newspapers followed the format of including columns on the various small settlements in their district of circulation. They kept their readers up to date with most events and items of interest by gathering news from the Towamba valley and surrounding districts. These snippets are from these columns and give the reader an idea of everyday events in these locations. Spelling is the same as in the original articles.
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Westward view of Towamba's first bridge.
Towamba Police Station in centre background, Towamba General Store foreground to the right with possibly Towamba Hotel in background. No date but pre 1919 flood. Photo courtesy C. and G. Clements |
LOOKING BACKWARD
The 'Twofold Bay and Maneroo Telegraph' is
first published in 1860 a few short months
before the 'Twofold Bay and Maneroo Observer'.
1892. The first copy of the newspaper the
'Pambula Voice' is published. The founder
is Mr. William Daniel Pfeiffer of Pambula.
* Ivy Arnold (eldest daughter of George Arnold)
married Eugene Harold McCarthy, who built
Pericoe hall.
* Eden founded in 1834
* The first sale of land in the township
of Eden was in 1843, March 9th. Mr. Benjamin
Boyd first purchaser. At the same time he
purchased land at 'Nullica' which became
known as Boyd Town.
* Towamba Cemetery dedicated on 11th June,
1886.
* 'Tuamba' one of the Imlay brothers' stations,
possibly in the Towamba valley.
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View looking east of Towamba-Eden Road. Arnold's
house in foreground, Slattery's farm, 'Limerick Vale' on left, Towamba Butter Factory in centre and manager's house last on right. |
PERICOE NEWS |
BURRAGATE NEWS |
ROCKY HALL NEWS |
TOWAMBA NEWS
October 2, 1860
'Twofold Bay and Maneroo Telegraph'
CROWN LANDS SALES.
* Sales of Crown Lands will be held at the
undermentioned place on the day stated.
EDEN (at the Police Office) on MONDAY, 12th
NOVEMBER.-Suburban Lots. County of Auckland:
25 lots (2 acres to 3 acres 2 roods 25 perches)
at Sturt, on the Towamba River, about 12
miles south-westerly from Eden, parish of
Towamba, allotments 1 to 6 of section 1,
1 to 8 of section 2, 1 to 7 of section 3,
1 to 4 of section 4. (Upset price, £3 per
acre.)-Town Lots. County of Auckland: 26
lots (2 roods each) in
the village of Sturt, parish of Towamba,
allotments 1 to 10 of section 7, 1 to 3 and
8 to 10 of section 8,1 to 10 of section 9.
(Upset price, £8 per acre.) See Government
Gazette, No. 177.
April 15, 1861
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
That dreadful epidemic, diphtheria, has made
its appearance in our midst. We have only
yet heard of two cases, one an adult, the
other a child; but we may naturally anticipate
that it will spread. The population of Towamba
is increasing, and if the Government could
only be prevailed upon to render the road
passable between that place and Eden, there
is not a shadow of a doubt but that the township
of Sturt would be a township indeed. We hear
very conflicting accounts from the Gulf Diggings.
One man has returned with a small parcel
of beautiful gold, weighing eight ounces,
another man describes the place as anything
but promising.
'The Manaro Mercury, and Cooma and Bombala
Advertiser'
3 April 1863
Caution. I HEREBY CAUTION all parties from using
or otherwise interfering with any working
bullocks branded SB off rump, 7 off side,
BN both sides, my property, anyone doing
so after this date will be prosecuted. AXEXANDER
BINNIE, Towamba.
November 17, 1866
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
* Forms for the Registration of Birth, Deaths,
and Marriages are to be had free of charge
at the Police Office in Eden, Panbula, and
the Post-office Bega. The Attention of the
public is called to the clause in the Act,
rendering all parties liable to a penalty
of £10, who do not register Births, within
60 days, Deaths and Marriages within 30 days.
C. D. HAYS,
District Registrar.
January 21, 1869
'Empire'
* REVOCATION OF TEMPORARY RESERVE.-The reserve
at Yuglamah, Towamba River, has been revoked,
the intention of forming a village in the
locality having been abandoned.
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
8 October 1874
Eden.-On the first instant a very old resident
was consigned to her last resting place:
the wife of Mr. James Roberts, senior, formerly of Eden, recently resident
at Towamba. A large number of people testified
their respect by attending the funeral.
April 19, 1875
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
* WANTED, a nursery GOVERNESS, for the country,
Protestant, to assist in needlework. For
further particulars apply, stating salary,
to Mrs. John Alexander, Pericoe, Towamba,
Eden, Twofold Bay.
October 2, 1876
'The Mercury'
WILSON-CONN.-On August 21st, at St. John's Church, Darlinghurst,
by the Rev. Mr. Hayden, R. Wilson, Esq. of
Towamba, New South Wales, eldest son of the
Rev. R. Wilson, Senior Colonial Chaplain
of Tasmania, to Laura Jane, eldest daughter
of the late W. G. Conn, Esq., of Queensland.
October 2, 1876
'The Mercury'
CROSSIN-TAIT.-On 7th September, at the residence
of Mrs. Robinson, by the Rev. L. Campbell,
William Patrick Crossin, of Oatlands, to
Jane Tait, of Jericho.
May 21, 1878
'The Sydney Morning Herald '
* TUTOR wanted for the country; Church of
England; must teach music. Apply by letter,
stating terms, &c, to John Alexander,
Pericoe, Towamba, via Eden.
July 5, 1879
'Australian Town and Country Journal'
MARRIAGE
PARKER-PLUMB.-June 19, at Eden, by the Rev. W. Baker,
George Parker, of Towamba, to Eliza, daughter
of Mr. Thos. Plumb, of Eden.
July 26, 1879
'Australian Town and Country Journal '
* W. B. (Towamba) asks -I bought 200 acres
of land 23 years ago. I lived upon it and
improved it. At that time I was a married
man and had no home on the ground for my
wife to live in, and I rented a house 50
miles, away for her accommodation. Is it
legal for me to select land adjoining it
without my wife residing on the freehold;
I lived there, but she never did?.-Yes.
March 8, 1882
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
Marriage: MARTIN-DUNN.-March 6th, 1882, at the Union Church, Wolumla,
by the Rev. W. Baker, Samuel Martin, of Towamba,
to Eliza, daughter of Mr. James Dunn, farmer,
of Wolumla.
November 11, 1882
'The Bega Standard and Candelo, Merimbula,
Pambula, Eden, Wolumla, and General Advertiser'
Sale of Towamba Estate.- This sale seems to be pretty extensively
advertised, and one can hardly pick up any
paper published in this colony without the
now familiar advertisement confronting him;
and we notice it has a place in Tasmanian,
Victorian, and Queensland papers. There has
been exhibited at Messrs. Rixon and Macleod's
rooms during this week a monster plan, the
work of Mr. Surveyor Sawtell. This plan is
on paper 12 feet long by 8 feet wide, and
has local sketch in one corner showing the
position of the Estate with regard to the
Port of Eden; the execution is quite artistic.
We believe that Mr. Surveyor Cook has decided
on a new road to avoid the hill between Nullica
and Towamba, and it will shortly be surveyed.
In this case the settlers attracted by this
sale will have a comparatively level road
from Towamba to deep water in Twofold Bay;
and the distance will be shorter than by
the pre sent road. This sale will draw people
to Bega from all parts of the colonies, and
special steamers from Melbourne, Sydney,
and Tasmania, are to call at Eden a few days
before the event.
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
25 November 1882
Information. - For the last time: "Towamba";
perhaps you may have seen the name in the
papers? Perhaps you will not see so much
"Towamba" again, at least for a
few months after next Tuesday, when Rixon
and Macleod intend to give away Towamba to
the highest bidder. But before business begins
on Tuesday, some "phizz" has to
be opened, and General Sir E. Suttle is to
marshal an attack on Tell-the-Karver at the
school of Arts entrenchments. Noon for the
hospitality; a brief hour, and then "Gentlemen,
the terms and conditions of sale are etc,"
The next we shall hear of Towamba will be
in connection with the T. Hotel, the T. School
of Arts, the T. Store, the T. Jockey Club,
and maybe the "Towamba Gazette."
Without joke, a large settlement about Towamba
is only a work of time, and we expect not
a few people know as much about this as we
can tell them, and will try to back their
belief at the sale on Tuesday.
August 1, 1883
'The Bega Standard and Candelo, Merimbula,
Pambula, Eden, Wolumla, and General Advertiser'
Towamba. - The meeting in reference to a cemetery
reserve was fairly attended, and the necessary
application will be made in course of a few
days. - The Road Superintendent, Mr. Postle,
paid a visit to the locality last week, and
has laid out some very necessary works for
which tenders will shortly be called. - The
twice-a-week mail is a great boon to residents
out Towamba way, and as it was obtained for
the asking, folks should be encouraged to
make their wants known to the Government
through the representatives of the district.
- The attendance at the Public School is
on the increase, and when the ground is fenced-in
many more from a riding distance will attend.
A new school it is to be hoped will soon
be erected. - Out towards Nangutta and Wog
Wog, where schools cannot be established
for years to come, the services of a few
house-to-house teachers would be a boon to
the residents.. - Much of the land down Towamba
way, that has been always accounted only
fit for cattle breeding, having been proved
to be suitable for dairying, a large increase
in the population may be expected.
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
15 September 1883
Eden,-At the Police Court, on Tuesday, before
Messrs J. P. Keon, P.M. and J. W. Lees J.P.,
John Hopkins sued S. Martin, of Towamba,
for £6 for a bullock slaughtered by defendant
with complainants consent in August 1882.
The evidence was of a most conflicting nature
complainant averring that he bought from
defendant five bullocks which he paid for,
but only received four, the fifth being the
one killed by defendant. On the other hand
the defendant's case was that six head were
bought, but only five were paid for, and
that five were actually taken away by plaintiff,
the sixth (unpaid for) being the one killed
by the defendant. Under the circumstances
the Bench non- suited the plaintiff, so as
to enable him to bring the case on again
when he is able to obtain the attendance
of Michael M' Carthy, the man who was with
him when the cattle were driven away from
Towamba.
September 19, 1883
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
* Probate. - Messrs Rawlinson and Bland,
Proctors for the executors of the will of
the late Alexander Binnie, of Towamba, apply
that probate may be granted to the executors,
Mr. David Binnie, of Towamba, and Mr. Thomas
Beare, of Candelo.
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
4 February 1885
Eden-Burton has just finished his contract on
the Eden-Towamba road, making a fine easy
gradient, and saving a couple of miles. Mr.
Postle is so satisfied that he has let him
another contract on the same road. Lawler
and Whelan have also a contract on that road,
which when completed will make it not only
the shortest but easiest route to Bombala,
with good "turns out," and carters
ought to avail themselves of it. The copper
mine at Reedy Creek, near New Building bridge,
is doing well, specimens of which may be
seen at the A. J. S. Bank, Eden. Some of
the more sanguine ask fabulous prices for
shares-but it will not realise what they
imagine, though it may be good. Twofold Bay
may at last, boast of a resident blacksmith,
Mr. Henry, late of Cobargo, having set up
a forge near Mr. Charles Peisley's Hotel.
Mr. Harrison of the Nullica Saw Mills is
busy building a good sized steamer to carry
timber. I believe he is also cutting timber
for lengthening the wharf, some £4000 being
granted for same. We had a flying visit from
the gentleman deputed to carry out the Bombala-Eden
railway survey, who rode down for the purpose
of viewing the general features of the country,
piloted by Mr. C. Roberts of Towamba, who,
better than anybody else, could point out
to him, being thoroughly conversant with
every inch of land in that part of the district,
the most accessible route. Some little excitement
was caused by an old gentleman of the name
of Boyd having come by the Sunday night steamer,
people who are in possession of jumped land
thinking that they would have to give up
their land.- Correspondent Bombala Herald.
'The Bega Gazette and Eden District or Southern
Coast Advertiser'
14 February 1885
Towamba.-A correspondent says:- " You will no
doubt be pleased to hear that we have succeeded
in forming a Progress Committee in this locality,
and are sanguine of its future success. The
following gentlemen were elected:-Chair man,
Mr. R. Bridle; Secretary, Mr. S. Martin;
Treasurer, Mr. T. Hite; Committee, Messrs
John Richards, C. J. Stiles, D. Gilpin, H.
Richards, M. Corcoran, J. Mitchell, G. Martin,
W. Purnell, H. Bridle, J. Smith, W. Ryan,
with power to add to the number. The terms
of member's subscription are 2/6 per annum
to defray postage, advertising, and other
expenses. The first committee meeting was
held on the 7th, and was well attended. Several
matters of importance were discussed, and
it was resolved to forward a petition to
the Minister for Works, requesting a grant
of £1,500 for the completion of the Towamba-Eden
road."
July 6, 1892
'Evening News'
In Bankruptcy.
VOLUNTARY SEQUESTRATIONS.
* Daniel Pendergast, of Towamba, bullock
driver. Mr. Lloyd, assignee.
'Pambula Voice' September 1893
TOWAMBA
* Mr. Martin Arnold will open an opposition
blacksmith shop in Towamba.
'Pambula Voice' August 2, 1895
TOWAMBA
* Licensee of the Towamba Hotel has vacated
the hostelry before the expiration of his
lease, owing to dull times. He is now renting
the Church of England grounds to start a
butcher's shop. It is hoped that he won't
turn the church into a butcher's shop.
'Evening News'
13 April 1897
DISEASES OF THE EAR.
OTITE MEDIA ACUTA.
There are no diseases of the ear that are
more generally presented in conjunction with
local symptoms than those inflammatory attacks
which occur in the middle ear. The pain is
established nearly in an instant, and with
marked intensity. It not infrequently happens
that the climax of the pain is reached at
midnight, after a gradual increasing during
the day, and when this stage arrives the
symptoms shown are the most important which
the disease develops. It is not a sensation
of heaviness and deafness that is felt, but
a lacerating and excruciating pain, which
the sufferer describes as though inflicted
by the sharp points of various instruments
penetrating the brain and dominating the
most sensitive part- a pain which more than
words can express establishes the anxiety
of fear.
The following case, out of many which have
come under my observation, occurred to Mr. Binnie, of Log Farm, Towamba. Mr. Binnie consulted me in March of this
year, suffering from discharge from the right
ear, which was going on for the past seventeen
years. He one night experienced an acute
inflammation of the right ear, which was
accompanied with agonizing pain, lasting
the whole time without the possibility of
an hour's rest being experienced. I ordered
at once the application of eight leeches
on the part where the most pain was felt.
After that the pain slightly ceased, but
again returned during the night time with
the sharp throbbing in the deeper part of
the ear, accompanied with slight dizziness,
faint ness, a sick stomach, and increasing
deafness. Not withstanding all the efforts,
the symptoms lasted for several days, and
during the whole time the pus was continually
discharging from the ear.
On examination, I observed a large perforation
on the interior, portion of the tympanic
membrane, and a small polypoid negelation
filling that space. The discharge which it
contained was copious and offensive, while
the hearing in that ear was much aggravated.
Mr. Binnie could only hear the tick of the
watch two inches distant from the left ear,
the right being useless for the purpose of
hearing. I removed the polypus. After the
ear had been thoroughly cleansed the ocular
inspection revealed the polypus had sprung
from the promontory, having found its way,
filling the space of the opening of tympanic
membrane. The meatus was very red and tumefied.
The portion of the membrana tympani which
remained was distinctly visible, the superior
portion being sound, and the inferior portion
of its quadrant destroyed by ulceration.
When the air was forced into the tympanic
cavity with Palitzer's method, a bubble mixed
with tenacious mucous was observed to bulge
outward through the perforated membrane.
This maintained till the mouth was opened
when the mucosity, with the mixed bubble,
again fell inwards. Mr. Binnie attended to
my treatment regularly, and within the first
fortnight of the terrible pain there was
manifest improvement; the discharge had lost
all offensive less, and the symptoms of dizziness,
of faintness, of painful throbbing, and unbearable
fullness in the ear, the acute paroxysm,
the stiffness of the neck had all left him.
The stump of the polypus disappeared. The
following letter speaks for itself :
- Log Farm, Towamba, N.S.W., 4th June. 1898.
Mr. P. Stanich.
Dear Sir, - Just a line to let you know how
I am. My ear has stopped the discharge, and
there has been no pain. My health is very
much better since I came home. The discharge
did not stop at once, but kept getting less
every day. Thanking you for your kindness
and good treatment to me when in Sydney -
I remain, Dear Sir, yours faithfully, ALEX.
BINNIE.
Dr. Stanich, Specialist, Ear, Nose, Throats,
Epilepsy, or Falling Fits. 20 years' practice
in New South Wales. Dr. Stanich can be consulted
at 84 Elizabeth-street, near King-street,
Sydney.
'Bathurst Free Press and Mining Journal'
13 April 1897
To-Day's Telegrams.
(From our Correspondent.)
Bitten by a Snake.
* At Towamba, on Saturday, the wife of a
selector named Bollman, was bitten by a black
snake. She was taken to Pambula for treatment,
and is now out of danger.
April 17, 1897
'Australian Town and Country Journal'
* John Whalen, whilst working in the pig
yards of Mr. Young at Towamba, near Pambula,
was suddenly thrown down and attacked by
an old boar which inflicted several gashes
and serious injuries. Fortunately Whalen
managed to crawl through a fence, or he would
have been killed. He is now receiving medical
and surgical attendance.
'Pambula Voice' January 21, 1898
WYNDHAM
* Our correspondent writes: Miss Jane Power,
who accidentally burst a blood vessel in
the head on Sunday week at Mr. Beresford's,
Burragate, is improving rapidly under Dr.
Meeke's care.
* A sister and two brothers of the late Ada
Williams who died under such sad circumstances
on Christmas Day of typhoid fever, are now
suffering from the same malady. Latest reports
state that they are on the mend.
* Another correspondent writes: Miss Grant
of 'Sandy Creek' is just recovering from
a serious illness.
'Evening News'
8 January 1898
DEATH FROM SNAKEBITE.
* A death, from snakebite has occurred at
Towamba. Two brothers named Johnson, whose
parents reside, at Towamba, were after a
hare when it took refuge in a log. The boys
blocked up the hole and proceeded to split
the log with axe. When a sufficiently large
hole had been made the younger boy put in
his hand, intending to drag out the hare.
He was immediately bitten in two or three
places. Thinking it was the hare, the boy
took little notice of it. Soon after, however,
he became ill, and commenced vomiting. He
was conveyed home, and everything possible
was done for the little sufferer. A doctor
was sent for from Pambula, and the lad taken
along the road in a buggy to meet him. It
was too late, however, for on arrival at
Burragate the boy succumbed. Upon the log
being cut open the hare was found dead, and
beside it was a tiger snake about 6ft long.
'Pambula Voice' April 8, 1898
TOWAMBA
* Mr. W. H. Wood, Member for the district,
visited Towamba recently but he did not address
the electors.
* The lad, Collins, who was injured in our
late races has recovered sufficiently to
be removed to his home. A subscription list
on his behalf reached about £6.
July 6, 1899
'Delegate Argus and Border Post'
Sad Burning Fatality. - A terrible burning accident happened
at Towamba on Tuesday, the victim being a
daughter of Mr. George Coombes, maintenance
man, aged 6 years and 8 months. From particulars
to hand we learn that while the mother was
absent from the house for a few minutes the
child evidently approached too near the fire,
and her clothes ignited. Her screams soon
brought prompt assistance, but before the
flames could be extinguished she was severely
burnt about the lower parts of the body.
Everything possible was done for the sufferer,
but she succumbed about 6 p.m. after some
eight hours' agony. Mr. Coombes was away
at work on the road. The district Coroner,
Mr. C. A. Baddeley, was communicated with,
but under the circumstances a magisterial
inquiry was deemed sufficient, and this was
held.
October 6, 1899
* The Federal Capital: TOWAMBA suggested
as a suitable site.
'Barrier Miner'
Monday 13 February 1899
ACCIDENTS AND FATALITIES.
[BY TELEGRAPH.]
A Roadside Tragedy.
John Mitchell, senior, a farmer, left Eden,
on the South Coast, for his home at Towamba
on Saturday, driving a buggy. Subsequently
he was found dead by the roadside with his
skull smashed. It is presumed that he fell
from the buggy.
'Eden Free Press and Eden District Advertiser'
8 March 1899
Mr. H. Bridle, of Towamba, has secure the
contract for building the provisional school
at Pericoe.
A wedding took place at Eden on Saturday,
the contracting parties being Mr. George
Lewis, of Pipeclay, and Miss Parker, of Towamba.
'Eden Free Press and Eden District Advertiser'
22 March 1899
There was considerable excitement on board
the Italian warship on Sunday in consequence
of the supposed total loss of one of the
officers, who, it appears, had gone for a
solitary stroll along one of our country
roads. It seems that some how on the track
he must unconsciously have turned round,
anyhow he lost his bearings, and by his non-appearance
at sunset, caused great consternation among
his fellow officers, who were apparently
oppressed by the fear that he must have been
captured and devoured by cannibals. The ship's
searchlights were kept going during the evening,
and search parties were organised. Ultimately
the missing man turned up, having been discovered
undevoured some miles from town, and proceeding
along the road towards Towamba under the
impression that he was re turning to Eden.
'Evening News'
6 October 1899
A surprise party was tendered to Mr. and
Mrs. Weatherhead at their residence, Nungatta
Station, on September 29, by some of the
residents of Towamba, Perico, Wongrabel,
Buldah, Bombala, and Bondi. There were about
50 people present, and they were heartily
welcomed by Mr. and Mrs. Weatherhead. Tea
was at once set, and served by the promoters,
and then the party adjourned to the music-room,
where dancing held sway till midnight, when
the party adjourned to the dining-room, where
supper was served.
The toast of the evening, 'Mr. and Mrs. Weather
head,' was drunk with musical honors. The
merry party broke up by the singing of 'Auld
Lang Syne.' Songs and recitations were rendered
during the evening.
March 16, 1900
* Mr. J. Martin, J.P., has been appointed
Coroner for this District, in lieu of Mr.
C.A. Baddeley, J.P., resigned.
'Evening News'
17 March 1900
LOST IN THE BUSH.
PAMBULA, Friday. - Mr. Simon Gordon, sen.,
J.P., left his home at Lochiel on Friday
last on a visit to his son at Towamba. He
got astray in the bush, and he was last seen
in Towamba district on Monday morning. His
horse and sulky were found jammed between
two trees near the road. Several police and
dozens of local residents are scouring the
country without success up to the present.
Mr. Gordon is about 80 years of age, and
has a very wide circle of friends and relatives
in the district.
'Examiner'
17 March 1900 Next issue
A SAD PLIGHT.
Simon Gordon, of Lochiel, over 80 years of
age, who has been missing since Sunday, was
found this morning near a creek on his son's
selection at Towamba, within a hundred yards
of the farmhouse. The old man, it was stated,
had subsisted on water for six days.
March 19, 1900
'The Manaro Mercury, and Cooma and Bombala
Advertiser'
* On Wednesday last at the Kameruka Church
the Rev. J. A. Newth officiated at the marriage
of Mr. Thomas Keys, of Candelo, and Miss
McKeachnie, of Towamba, the guests being
subsequently entertained at the residence
of the bride groom's father.
May 26, 1900
'South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus'
EDEN.
* The existing Warden's Court at Eden is
being transferred to Towamba.
Encouraging reports continue to arrive from
the Yambulla mines. In Solomon's (late Brown's)
mine the reef is said to be 7ft 6in wide
and carrying good gold. In another mine (Haugh's)
at a depth of about 40 feet the stone is
rich in gold, and the full width, of the
reef is being taken out for crushing. A parcel
of a few tons of quartz from Barron's leases
is being sent away for special treatment.
'Delegate Argus and Border Post'
21 July 1900
Mr. F. Peisley, of Bombala, had a narrow
escape from drowning while attempting, to
cross the river at Towamba last Thursday.
The stream was very much swollen from the
recent rains, but not being aware of any
danger, Peisley drove in at the usual crossing-place.
The horse soon got beyond its depth, and
was carried down about fifty yards, when
it came to shallower water and succeeded
in reaching the bank in safety.
October 12, 1900
* Federal Capital Site... Orange, Yass and
Southern Monaro considered to be equally
suitable as sites.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
22 October 1900
The distribution of salmon trout fry has
necessarily been restricted. 10,000 salmon
trout ova were received from Tasmania in
August, and the fry hatched there from were
distributed in the undermentioned waters:-
The Macquarie and Campbell Rivers, and streams
at Orange, also two tributaries of Fish River,
the Belabula and Nepean Rivers, Blackheath
Creek, Long Swamp Creek near Lithgow, and
the creeks in the valley of Govett's leap,
in the South Coast district (Paddys, Clyde,
Moruya, Bega, and Towamba Rivers, and the
upper waters of the Tuross), Cabramatta Creek,
the head waters of Middle Harbour, the Murrumbidgee
(a stream at Berridale, near Cooma), and
a creek at Germanton.
February 6, 1901
'Southern Star'
A quiet wedding was celebrated on the 26th
ult. at St. Barnabas' Church, Sydney, when
Mr. J. H. Jones, of Lithgow, was married
to Hannah, oldest daughter of Mr. Clements,
of Towamba, Eden. The bride (in the absence
of her father) was given away by her cousin,
Mr. C. Thornton, of Annandale, and was attired
in a gown of soft white silk, made with a
transparent yoke and profusely trimmed with
Valenciennes lace and insertion. A prettily
draped fichu, chiffon toque, and shower bouquet
completed the costume. The little bridesmaid,
Miss Minnie Cordner, was also in white silk,
and was the recipient of a gold brooch from
the bridegroom. After being photo graphed
the happy couple left for their future home
at Lithgow amid showers of rice and good
wishes from their friends. The bride travelled
in a reseda biege, with guipure lace and
insertion. Numerous presents were received,
including many from Eden and Towamba.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
20 February 1901
EDEN-MONARO.
TOWAMBA
* Mr. Austin Chapman, federal candidate,
addressed a large meeting here last night.
Two hundred miners were amongst those present,
and the candidate was warmly welcomed. Mr.
Earl presided, and a vote of confidence was
carried.
February 22, 1901
'Bombala Times and Manaro and Coast Districts
General Advertiser'
* New Magistrates.- Tho undermentioned gentlemen
have been appointed to the Commission of
the Peace: - James Barry, Jindabyne; A. W.
King, Pambula; C. W. J. Mawson, Cooma; John
Murdock, Bungarby; A. E. Nicholson, Woolingubrah,
Cathcart; W. Ryan, junr., Pambula; H. O'Brien,
Pambula; T. W. Ward, C.P.S., Bombala; W.
Weatherhead, Towamba; J. Whitby, Rocky Hall.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
19 June 1901
WOLUMLA,
The weather continues dry, with cyclonic
winds. Heavy losses of stock in Towamba and
other parts of the Bega district have taken
place.
August 30, 1901
'Bombala Times and Manaro and Coast Districts
General Advertiser'
* Mr. Blackston, a commercial traveller,
well known in the south-coast district, had
an exciting experience on Friday last. In
the afternoon he left Eden for Towamba, and
on reaching 'Donnelly's' at about 5 o'clock
attempted to cross the Nullica River, which,
owing to the recent rains was in high flood.
The horses and coach got into deep water
and were at once carried away downstream.
Corrigan, the driver, cut loose one of the
horses, which got safely to land, but the
one attached to the coach was swept away
in the flood and was drowned. Corrigan reached
the bank but Mr. Blackston, who jumped from
the coach into the river, was unable to make
any headway against the torrent. He was swept
down the stream for some distance and eventually
drifted against a log projecting from the
bank. This he grasped and retained his hold
of until rescued shortly afterwards by Corrigan.
'The Sydney Morning'
11 October, 1901
SOUTH COAST
EDEN
* Four tins of salmon trout consigned by
the Fisheries Department to the Eden and
Nethercote Progress Association for liberation
in the Kiah and Towamba and Yowaka rivers
arrived per the steamer Allowrie this morning.
The young fish were in good condition, and
were at once conveyed to their destinations.
Complaint is made of the destruction by dynamite
of rainbow trout in the Yowaka River.
'Evening News'
24 August 1901
THE RAIN
OVER 6 INCHES IN 24 HOURS
The Government Astronomer has received reports
from several stations in the south-east that
are not marked on his chart, which shows
that the heavy rain was general in those
parts. At Wyndham, between Bombala and Pambula,
the downpour on Thursday was phenomenal,
6 inches and 66 points being recorded in
twenty-four hours. At Bemboka 618 points,
Towamba 508, and Burragate 418, were the
next highest records. All these places are
situated on or in the vicinity of Wog Wog
and Towamba Rivers, which unite, and find
an outlet in Twofold Bay.
October 9, 1901
'Southern Star'
* Mrs. Rankin, of Towamba, has been admitted
to Bega Hospital with a bad attack of inflammation
of the lungs.
'The Cobargo Chronicle'
13 December 1901
COASTAL AND OTHER PARS
(From our Exchange.)
Two shocks of earthquake felt at Towamba
last week.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
Monday, 14 April, 1902
PAMBULA
* Tom Doyle, who recently had one of his
legs broken in four places by a fall of stone
while working with a road party at Towamba,
is progressing favourably in Pambula Hospital
'Australian Town and Country Journal'
14 June 1902
* Over 1100 wallabies have been trapped by
Mr. M'Leod at Towamba since last Christmas.
Rabbits are also increasing very fast in
the district, and unless some steps are taken
to keep them down, they will soon be the
worst pest the district has ever known.
'Freeman's Journal'
28 June 1902
* A family near Towamba has trapped over
1100 wallabies during the past few months,
killing them for their skins. An opossum
hunter in the same vicinity (Pericoe) also
succeeded in trapping 200 opossums in one
week, 60 being captured in one night. The
skins are of the highest market value just
now, as the opossums have their winter coats
of fur.
July 18, 1902
Pambula or "Pambula"
* .. we believe that the old aboriginal name
was pronounced "Pamboolah"' meaning
"large water" after the sheet of
water which then existed at the back of the
present recreation ground. Efforts have been
made by the local Progress Association to
induce the Government to adopt the one name
in all departments, but so far without success.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
6 October 1902
* Whooping cough is still very prevalent
in the southern portion of the district.
Half of the scholars in the Towamba school
are affected. Influenza also is prevalent.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
11 October 1902
SOUTH COAST.
BEGA
* A lodge of the G. U. O. O. F. has been
opened at Towamba with 55 members. (Grand
United Order of Oddfellows)
'Illawarra Mercury'
Saturday 11 October 1902
* The young man Tindall, injured at Towamba
in a wrestling bout, has recovered in Bega
Hospital. For some time a nurse had to be
in constant attention on him night and day.
December 13, 1902
'South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus'
EDEN
* Mr. T. P. Shelley intends shortly to test
the Tasmanian market with a trial shipment
of horses Arrangements are being made to
publicly celebrate the 19th inst., the anniversary
of Bass's discovery of Twofold Bay.
'Evening News'
19 February 1903
* The weather has been exceedingly hot at
Towamba during the past week, the glass recording
102deg in the shade; and at Pericoe it was
even hotter.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
27 February 1903
EFFORTS AT PAMBULA.
* A fund is being inaugurated locally to
assist the drought sufferers, and an entertainment
is being organised at Towamba with the same
object.
March 28, 1903
'Delegate Argus and Border Post '
* The first Eden show, which eventuated
on the 17th and 18th inst.; was, according
to the 'Propeller,' a huge success. There
were a large number of exhibits, and a large
marquee did duty for a pavilion. The attendance
on the first day was about 790, and on the
second between 800 and 900. The prize for
the 'best dressed and most prepossessing
young lady' fell to Miss Martin, the Towamba
postmistress.
'Evening News'
23 April 1903
* A young man, named Herbert Greer, has had
part of two of his fingers blown off through
his gun bursting near the breech during the
progress of a hare drive at Towamba, near
Candelo.
May 20, 1903
'Southern Star'
Eden,- Our correspondent writes : Three fishermen
named Ryan, Gilbert, and Stewart, from near
Moruya, arrived here a few weeks ago with
the intention of starting fishing, and camped
at Cattle Bay. They went out on Tuesday morning,
altho' advised by Mr. Alex. Greig that it
was going to blow. It was then blowing fairly
strong they remarked that they would just
have a run around the bay, and when last
seen were off Charcoal, a bay seaward of
East Boyd, on the Southern shore. Since then
nothing has been heard of them. The boat
was an 18 feet open boat, and was carrying
a large sail. Ryan is a native of Towamba,
and his father now resides at Bodalla. Gilbert,
it is said, was tho only one capable of handling
a boat.
February 5, 1904
'Bombala Times and Manaro and Coast Districts
General Advertiser'
* Mr. H. Beileiter has been fortunate enough
to recover his clarinet which was lost in
September last in Donnelly's Creek, near
Towamba. The instrument was found in the
sand of the creek and is very little damaged.
March 29, 1904
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
SOUTH COAST.
EDEN
Mr. Roland Stevenson, a well-known farmer
of Wangrabelle, died at Towamba today from
injuries sustained in a buggy accident while
on his way home from Eden last week.
July 23, 1904
'South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus'
EDEN.
* Mr. J. Hines has the work of moving the
Burragate factory to Towamba.
* A painful accident occurred in Towamba
on Wednesday, to Mr. John Heartneady. While
driving a nail it flew from the wood, striking
him in the eye, injuring him very much. He
was taken to the Bega Hospital.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
6 August 1904
ELECTORS DISFRANCHISED.
TOWAMBA
* There is much indignation here at the wholesale
disfranchisement of electors. Three-fourths
of the adult population are not enrolled,
while many who are on the roll have no rights;
many have rights who are not on the roll.
'Australian Town and Country Journal'
23 November 1904
Dame Durden's Post Office.
Towamba, near Eden.
Dear Dame Durden,-We take your paper, and
I very much like to read the "Children's
Page," and I saw a letter in it some
time ago from my cousin, Daisy Bourke, so
I thought I would try and write one myself.
I am not a very good writer, but will try
and do my best. I will tell you about a very
funny thing that happened to my father one
day when he was felling a tree, which was
an old dead one, and he had with him our
two dogs, and when the tree fell with a crash
out jumped an opossum out of an old spout.
He turned about to find some place to got
out of the reach of the dogs, and, seeing
no where to go, turned, and before my father
knew what it was about to do, it ran up his
legs and sat on the top of his head. It was
a dreadful time for poor dad, as the opossum
had knocked his hat off when it was getting
up, and the dogs were jumping and barking
round him, trying to get the opossum, and
it nearly pulling all his hair out trying
to hang on. But a happy thought came to dad,
and he walked as straight as he could over
to a tree, which was a good bit away, and
the opossum jumped on to the tree, and left
poor dad with his head on, although it was
scratched a good bit. Dad said he was never
in such a silly fix, as he was afraid to
move, as the dogs made the opossum hang on
so tight it hurt his head. Dear Dame, I have
one little sister, nearly 1 years old, and
she is such a funny little girl. She hurt
her heel, and said, "I hurt my foot's
elbow." Her name is Beryl. I have one
little brother, Dudley. Now, I have written
enough this time. If you think my letter
is good enough to print, I will write again.
With love to all the Court,
I remain, your true friend,
Keith Parker (age nearly 10).
'The Bega Budget'
11 November 1905
TOWAMBA.
A general meeting of the Towamba Progress
Association was held at the local hall on
Saturday night last. Mr. J. Hartneady occupied
the chair. The minutes of the last meeting
were read and confirmed. Correspondence was
read as follows: - From the Public Works
Department (through W. H. Wood, Esq): In
reply to your letter of the 24th ultimo,
stating that certain land near Towamba through
which the road to Yambulla at present in
use runs, has been sold, and the purchaser
intends to fence same, thus blocking the
traffic: I have the honor to inform you that
the maintenance men have been instructed
to clear a bye-track.
With reference to your letter of the 7th
August last, urging the construction of a
culvert and approaches at the township of
Towamba, on road from Eden to Towamba: I
have the honor to inform you that the Minister
has approved of tenders being invited at
once for this culvert, and instructions will
be issued accordingly. With reference to
your letter of the 22nd August, presented
by you from the Towamba Progress Association
urging the clearing of the road from Towamba
to the cemetery, I have the honor to inform
you that it is reported this is a fair track,
following a sound granite ridge which has
been sufficiently cleared by the residents
for all reasonable requirements, and it is
not the practice of the Department to grant
moneys for improvements to country cemeteries.
The Minister cannot see his way to approve
of any expenditure on this road. With reference
to your letter bearing date 8th August, presented
by you from the Towamba Progress Association
applying for a grant of £150, for the purpose
of road from Kelly's store across Towamba
River, terminating near the Public School,
I have the honor by direction to inform you
it is reported that the existing improved
road is sufficient to meet all legitimate
traffic requirements, and the Minister cannot
therefore see his way clear to sanction a
grant as asked. With reference to your letter
of the 10th August, presented by Towamba
Progress Association, urging the construction
of a bridge over the Towamba River at Towamba,
on the road from Towamba via Bondi to Maharatta
Bridge, I have the honor to inform you that
it is not considered the extent of traffic
and the obstruction caused by the river justify
the very large cost of a bridge, and the
Minister cannot therefore see his way to
accede to the request. With reference to
your letter of the 8th August respecting
the dangerous state of culvert in front of
Police Station on road to Yambulla, and urging
the erection of hand rails, I have the honor
to inform you that instructions have been
issued for this work to be carried out. From
the Postmaster-General: - With reference
to your communication of the 8th August last,
asking, on behalf of the Towamba Progress
Association, Towamba, for a delivery of telegrams
within a radius of one mile of the local
post office, I desire to inform you I have
had inquiry made in the matter, and enclose
herewith a copy of a report submitted by
the Deputy Postmaster-General, Sydney, together
with a recommendation by himself and the
secretary to the effect that the delivery
applied for would not be justified, and this
recommendation has been approved. After some
discussion about the last matter it was resolved
that the following letter be forwarded to
Mr. Chapman: - I have been instructed by
the Progress Association to thank you for
your efforts in connection with our application
for the delivery of telegrams within a radius
of one mile of the Towamba post office. With
reference to the report as submitted by the
Deputy Postmaster-General, and on which our
application has been re fused, we wish to
say we are of the opinion that (although
our re quest may not be justified) we have
been over-ridden with individual influence
in the matter, inasmuch the interrogator
has to some extent been misled. It was resolved
that the secretary draw up a petition to
be signed by all concerned in the construction
of a traffic bridge across the river, and
forwarded to the Minister for Works through
Mr. W. H. Wood, M.L.A. It was decided that
application be made for the suspension of
the Act with regard to the registration of
dogs for the Towamba district, owing to the
incessant increase of rabbits. Subscription
lists in connection with the School of Arts
movement were laid on the table by the secretary,
and it was decided that a public meeting
be convened for the 25th inst. for the purpose
of electing a committee to carry out the
work.
A plain and fancy dress ball in aid of the
local band took place on Monday last, and
notwithstanding the flooded river and the
inclemency of the weather during the day
it proved very successful. A school picnic
which promises to be a big thing takes place
on Monday, 13th inst.
'The Bega Budget'
16 December 1905
TOWAMBA.
* We have been enjoying some beautiful weather
for the past fortnight, sunshine and showers
alternating; and although we were not faring
too badly, this change has been much appreciated.
* The fair sex are still in charge or the
cricket pitch. Lower Towamba and Towamba
ladies played a return match on the former's
ground on Saturday last. Of course, where
the ladies are, the boys are sure to be,
consequently there was a good gathering and
a very enjoyable day was spent. The visitors,
who were entertained by the home team at
an excellent dinner provided by Mrs. Kennedy,
won the game by about 40 runs. By the way,
our bonny lassies apparently mean to outdo
the brethren who at one time so eagerly defended
the stumps. Seemingly, we have turned some
what topsy-turvy, and we don't know whether
it is woman's franchise that brings this
about; but the ladies have to some extent
taken the men's place in the cricket field,
and I venture to think were it not for our
few enthusiasts who work untiringly to keep
the ball rolling, cricket in our midst would
soon be doomed to oblivion. Mr. Check, the
well-known entertainer, had a bumper house
here on Friday night last in the local hall.
A public meeting, re the School of Arts movement,
convened for Saturday, 2nd inst., lapsed
for want of a quorum. The Progress Association
fortnightly meeting on the same evening shared
a similar fate. A meeting for the purpose
of forming a rifle club was held at McKee's
Hotel on Saturday night, but nothing definite
was done.
* The committee of the athletic sports met
on Saturday last at McKee's Hotel for the
purpose of electing officers to carry out
the necessary work on Boxing Day. The following
were appointed: Handicappers -- Messrs. Young,
Arnold, Dickie and McCloy; Judges - Messrs.
R. T. Doyle, R. Alexander and J. T. Dickie;
starter- Mr. H. Rankin; marksmen - Mr. J.
Hartneady.
* No less than three weddings are to take
place next week. On Tuesday, Miss L. Kennedy,
second daughter of Mr. W. F. Kennedy, of
Lower Towamba, and Mr. A. Hiles of Queanbeyan,
are to be united in the holy bonds of matrimony.
On the following day, Miss. A. Lindall and
Mr. T. Lawson, and Miss A. Sawers and Mr.
W. Power will be married.
'The Bega Budget'
3 January 1906
From Our Correspondent.
TOWAMBA.
A very pretty wedding took place on Tuesday,
December 19th, at Lower Towamba, when Mr.
A. E. Hylos, of Bungendore, was united in
marriage to Miss A. Helena, second daughter
of W. F. Kennedy. The ceremony was performed
by Rev. R. Penty, of Pambula. The bride,
who was given away by her father, was becomingly
gowned in soft white silk with Paris lace
and silk yak trimmings, the usual veil with
wreath of real orange blossoms being added.
She also carried a beautiful bouquet of white
roses and maiden hair fern, the gift of Mrs.
J. T. Mitchell. Misses Hilda and Amy Kennedy,
sisters of the bride, were bridesmaids, and
Mr. Arthur Hyles, brother of the bride groom,
acted as best man. The bridesmaids looked
charming in white Swiss muslin and pale blue
sashes. The bride's gift to the bridegroom
was a gold heart pendant, the bridegroom
to the bride gold watch and chain, the bride
groom to the bridesmaids gold initial brooches.
After the ceremony the many friends of the
family sat down to a sumptuous breakfast
provided by the bride's parents. After the
usual toasts were duly honored, the happy
couple amidst showers of rice and rose leaves
departed for Pambula, en route for Bungendore,
whither they intend residing. The bride's
travelling dress was grey silk voile, hat
and parasol en suite. The young couple were
the recipients of many valuable presents.
Amongst those present were: Mr., Mrs. and
Miss Mitchell, Mrs. and Miss Alexander, Mr.
and Mrs. Solomon, Mr. and Mrs. P. S. Kennedy,
Mr. and Mrs. S. Parker, Mrs. and Miss Roberts,
Mr. and Mrs. H. Roberts, Misses Cunnington
(2), Mrs. McCloy, Mrs. and Misses Hazelgrove,
Mr., Mrs. and Miss Rankin, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert
Harris, Mrs. Alf. Robinson, Miss Alice Martin,
Messrs. Stevenson and U. Hazelgrove. Foot
races were held here on Boxing Day, but owing
to the terrific heat there was not a good
attendance. A ball in connection with the
local jockey club was held in the Lyceum
Hall on the 26th instant, and was a success
beyond expectation, fully forty-five couples
being in attendance, including visitors from
most of the neighbouring towns. The music
was supplied by Mr. W. McDonald (violin),
assisted by Mr. W. Ryan, Vassal Cope and
Mrs. W. Kennedy (piano) and was all that
could be desired. The duties of M. C. were
allotted to Mr. H. Richards who was not lacking
in his efforts to keep the dancers continually
on the move. At midnight a break was made
in the dancing to do justice to an excellent
supper provided by Mrs. W. F. Kennedy. After
supper, dancing was resumed and continued
until the small hours of the morning, when
all departed for their respective homes perfectly
satisfied with their night's enjoyment.
March 31, 1906
'South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus'
* A young man named Beasley, who almost
severed his toe last week at Towamba, had
the member amputated at the local Hospital.
June 13, 1906
'Southern Star'
BEGA QUARTER SESSIONS
MONDAY, JUNE 11, 1906.
Before his Honor Judge Fitzhardinge. Mr.
Armstrong, K.C. Crown Prosecutor.
The first case called was that of William
Thomas Beazley, a youth, who was charged
with that he did, on November 16, 1905, at
Towamba, forge a cheque on the name of William
Weatherhead for £25 -4s, and, further, that
he did offer, utter, and dispose of the cheque
for that amount. Accused, who was represented
by Mr. Rogers, of Eden, pleaded guilty to
both charges. Mr. Rogers was allowed to call
witnesses as to character. William Weatherhead,
J.P., grazier, Bega : Know accused ; have
seen him often during the last five or six
years; he has been in my service under Mr.
George Young, my manager ; his character
has been very good ; he has continued in
my employ since the offence ; am willing
to still employ him. George Young, manager
of Towamba Station for Mr Weatherhead, deposed:
Have known accused since he was a boy; he
has always been a good boy. His Honor: How
did he get into this trouble? Witness: That
what beats me; latterly he used to go a little
about the hotel at Towamba; can't suggest
how he spent the money. To Mr. Rogers: He
has carried £7'0 or £800 for me from the
butchers; he takes the bullocks there, and
brings back the money; we live on the opposite
side of the river from the hotel; I will
keep a strict eye on him if he comes back.
Constable Camphion, Towamba, deposed: Know
accused nearly all his life : in the last
two years have seen a lot of him ; his character
was very good up to this offence; the cause
of his fall was joining tho local Brass Hand
; the Band has now disbanded ; since the
offence I have only seen him at the hotel
once, and that was at a meeting; the full
amount of the cheque has been paid to Mr.
Cunnington, who cashed the cheque. The Judge
directed that the amount found on accused
be handed back to accused's father. Mr. Rogers
asked that the accused be treated as a first
offender. His Honor said that when dealing
with the accused he would most likely accede
to the request. He must see the depositions
first.
July 20, 1906
'Albury Banner and Wodonga Express'
* A girl aged 12 years, daughter of Mr.
William Ryan, of Pericoe, near Towamba, has
been fatally burnt.
September 26, 1906
'The Bega Budget'
* Edward Hazelgrove, the victim of a gunpowder
explosion at Towamba recently, was taken
to Sydney for treatment. The sight of an
eye was injured.
May 4, 1907
'The Bega Budget'
* A curious accident occurred at Towamba
recently. Mr. G. Mar tin, sen., was standing
near the blacksmith's shop when a horse was
led out. The animal on coming outside dropped
dead. In the fall it struck Mr. Martin and
threw him against the box of a buggy wheel,
injuring his back and giving him a severe
shaking. He was confined to his room for
a couple of days. Mr. Martin is 87 years
of age.
May 11, 1907
'South Coast Times and Wollongong Argus'
TOWAMBA.
* We are having a deal of sickness; tonsillitis,
influenza, and bronchitis are very common;
the changeableness of the weather is accountable
for this. The country needs rain, although
too late for grass it would settle the weather.
From accounts to hand, the milk supply is
rapidly falling off. Very little systematic
feeding is carried on as yet, although there
is a deal of land 'aided by a moderate expenditure
on manure,' suitable for growing fodder.
A great deal of interest is being taken in
the sale of the Yambulla Co.'s mine to a
Melbourne syndicate, who purpose floating
it into a big company. If this should be
so, we will certainly benefit considerably.
November 27, 1907
'Southern Star'
* Mrs. Parker, of Towamba, who has been
in Bega for some time under Dr. Stead, is
returning to her home.
July 24, 1908
'Evening News'
* The residence of Mr. M'Donald, at Towamba,
was destroyed by fire.
August 15, 1908
'The Bega Budget'
* Mr. Jas. A. McDonald, late of Towamba,
has purchased a good property within a mile
of Murwillumbah, and is delighted with the
district.
October 14, 1908
'The Bega Budget'
TOWAMBA.
Towamba, at present, presents a pleasing
appearance, everywhere being clothed in a
mantle, of lovely green. Farmers are busy
with the plough, and dairymen are beginning
to smile once again. Some of our fanners
are fighting great battles with bunny. Mr.
Alex Binnie, of Log Farm, is fighting him
for all he is worth, and has just wire-netted
about 60 acres of his cultivation land to
cope with the pest. During a visit to Mr.
Binnie's place, I was shown some fine samples
of ensilage made from green maize. These
are preserved in large jars, and have the
natural appearance of the growing maize.
The crop was sown in 1905, cut and stacked
in1906, and opened last year. Besides having
stacks of this fodder, Mr. Binnie also grows
large quantities of mangold. The Jersey herd
on this farm is looking in prime condition,
and the milk yield is far ahead of a number
of dairies here, as the cows milked, number
twice as many as any other. Mr. Joseph McKee
is offering for sale the goodwill etc., of
the local hotel. If successful, Mr. McKee
will return to the Royal Hotel at Nimitybelle.
On Friday night, the pupils of the Lower
Towamba Public School, gave a concert in
the local hall. The building was packed,
and every item received rounds of applause.
Great credit is due to the teacher, Miss
Ashton, for the clever way in which she had
trained the children, and the result must
be highly gratifying. This was the first
attempt by this school to arrange anything
of the kind, and sets an example which much
larger schools might follow with advantage,
and thus raise money to buy prizes for the
children. Teachers may invariably depend
upon the hearty co-operation of the parents.
Your scribe will not particularise the various
items, but gives here with the programme:
- Cantata, 'Soot and the Fairies'; duet,
''Butterflies Gay,' Maud McLeod, and Mercia
Dickie; recitation, 'How Jimmy 'Tended the
Baby,' W. Hazelgrove; trio, 'Buy a Broom,'
G. Hazelgrove, E., and R. Dickie; duet, 'I
Love You,' Lena Dickie and Ron Aston; dialogue,
'The Proposal,' Miss Aston and V. Hazelgrove;
action song, 'Hi Ching a Ling'; duet, 'List
to the Convent Bells,' Evelyn Mitchell and
K. McLeod; dialogue, 'Shadowtown,' six little
girls; solo, ------ Mr. H. Duncan; duet,
'The Very Worst Girl in the School,' G. Hazelgrove
and Lena Dickie; duet, 'Always in the Way,'
Eileen and Reggie Dickie; trio, 'Dame Durden,'
K. McLeod, R. Aston, and J. Mitchell; physical
drill display, pupils; recitation, 'Mrs.
Mc Sweeney at the Dentist's,' Miss Aston;
song, 'Where are you Going My Pretty Maid';
dialogue, 'The Woman's Rights Question';
action song, 'The Handkerchief Song,' pupils;
God Save the King, the audience. After the
concert, the hall was cleared for the ball,
which also proved a great success. The music
was supplied, by Messrs. W. Ryan, and Mrs.
J. W. Dickie (pianos), Messrs. C. Fairweather,
and D. McDonald (violins). Mr. H. Richards
acted as M.C. The proceeds of concert and
ball amounted to about £12, which will be
devoted to the purchase of school prizes.
The catering for the ball was excellently
carried out by Mrs. McKee of the local hotel.
A programme of sports will be run off here
at an early date, proceeds in aid of the
Bega and Pambula hospitals.
October 31, 1908
'The Bega Budget'
* At Towamba, the other day, two brothers
named Martin were handling a pea rifle. The
weapon 'went off,' and the bullet passed
through the shoulder of one of the boys.
December 9, 1908
'The Bega Budget'
* John McDonald of Towamba proceeded against
John Heartneady under a section of the Crimes
Act for maliciously cutting a fence. Mr.
Rogers appeared to prosecute and Mr. Bland
appeared to defend. After a very lengthy
hearing and the examination of a number of
witnesses the case was dismissed. The case
excited a remarkable degree of interest.
March 17, 1909
'The Bega Budget'
* The case of G. E. Hyde, of Towamba, charged
with forging a cheque for £30, was heard
at Eden recently, and adjourned till last
Saturday, bail being refused.
'Delegate Argus'
10 September 1909
Orange Blossoms.
'Hear the chiming of the bells, silver bells;
What a world of melody their sound foretells'!
MRS M'DONALD of Towamba, was joined in holy
wedlock to Mr. R. Roberts, of Delegate, at
Towamba yesterday week, Rev. Father Kenny
officiating. The bride was most becomingly
attired in a rich grey costume most artistically
trimmed. The hat was a creation of white
and pink roses. The bridesmaid, Miss Mary
M'Donald, daughter of the bride, was dressed
in white mauve with pink. Mr A. Cunnington
officiated in the capacity of best man. The
elite of Towamba assembled in honor of the
occasion. After the ceremony the happy couple
were entertained at the house of Mr Donald
M'Donald, son of the bride, where a sumptuous
repast was prepared and partaken of by their
numerous friends and relatives. The happy
couple were next entertained by Mr. Hugh
Rankin, brother of the bride. On Monday evening
the friends and relatives of the newly-married
couple gave a send off, which took the form
of a ball and supper at Mr A. Cunning ton's
hall when dancing was kept up until the small
hours, when the bride and bridegroom started
on their honeymoon amidst showers of confetti
and rice, and good wishes. List of wedding
presents not to hand.- Magnet.
November 6 , 1909
'The Bega Budget'
* Mr. E. E. Legge, of Saltwater Creek, intends
establishing a sawmill at Towamba at an early
date.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
9 November 1909
THROWN FROM A BUGGY.
PAMBULA, Monday.
* Miss Ivy Mitchell Towers, of Towamba, was
thrown out of a buggy on Saturday afternoon.
Her hair caught in the spokes of the vehicle,
and she received severe scalp wounds, also
a rugged wound over the eyebrows.
'The Bega Budget'
13 July 1910
Liberalism at Towamba.
A meeting was held at Towamba on Saturday
for the purpose of forming a branch of the
Liberal and Reform Association. Messrs. W.
Weatherhead and W. Boot of Bega were present.
There was a good attendance and Mr. Boot
was elected chairman. After briefly explaining
the object of the gathering, the chairman
suggested that a secretary should be appointed,
and on the motion of Messrs. Arnold and Martin,
Mr. Percy Alexander was unanimously chosen.
Mr. Arnold proposed and Mr. Martin seconded,
"That a branch of the Liberal and Reform
Association be formed in Towamba"' (Carried.)
The following officers were then elected:
President, Mr. Percy Alexander; committee,
Messrs. G. Martin, G. Keys, W. Ryan, J. T.
Mitchell, D. Binnie, G. Young, G. Arnold,
J. H. Ryan. Two vacancies were left on the
committee in case Burragate Liberals should
decide to join instead of forming a separate
branch. As Pericoe is throwing in its lot
with Towamba, it was thought Burragate might
do the same. Mr. Alexander proposed a vote
thanks to the chairman which was carried
by acclamation. In acknowledging the vote
Mr. Boot pointed out the method by which
thorough organisation could be brought about,
and urged every Liberal (not only the committee)
to join in the work of securing a record
vote at the election for their nominee -
the Hon. W. H. Wood.
January 14, 1911
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
*
Mr. George Dark, well known here, is taking
over Mr. Harold McCarthy's blacksmithing
business at Towamba. We wish the new proprietor
success in his venture.
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
21 January 1911
TOWAMBA.
(From our Correspondent.)
* The most prominent occurrence in our midst
this week is the splendid down fall of rain,
which we were beginning to need, although
we have had a fair season; from Thursday
morning to this morning, Saturday, we've
had 940 points, and it's still raining. The
river is flooded, but not enough to interfere
with the new bridge under construction, though
there's a culvert washed out near the factory
on the Towamba to Eden road. Some slight
damage to maize crops through the rain and
wind, causing it to fall to the ground. The
local blacksmithing and wheel right business
has changed hands once more, Mr. G. J. Dark
being the present proprietor, and having
procured the service of one of Candelo's
best trades men (Mr. Charles McCarthy), we
hope to see the business prosper.
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
28 January 1911
TOWAMBA
(From our Correspondent.)
My last to you consisted of rainy topics.
The rain continued well into this week, Wednesday,
Thursday and Friday being beautifully fine.
Saturday evening inclined to be showery.
Upwards of 11 inches of rain were registered
in all.
With the approaching shire election we have
in our midst some of the prospective candidates.
Councillor Alexander of C. riding, Imlay
Shire, addressed a fair audience in the local
hall last night, and in a short but comprehensive,
speech explained what the Council has been
doing, which appeared to me, and, I think,
to most fair minded citizens, that the Councillor
in question is a non-talkative but a practical
man. Mr. Geo. Keys and Mr. Jas. Morgan, who
are both contesting the riding as candidates,
each in turn addressed the rate-payers, and
were received with quite an amount of enthusiasm.
Preparations for the coming races are in
evidence. We see some local steeds looking
fit and fine. The races take place on February
9.
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
Saturday 4 March 1911
TOWAMBA.
(From our Correspondent.)
The bridge work still forges ahead, slowly
of course, owing to the continued showery
weather, which is a great impediment to painting
operations, but at the same time, a great
boon to the district. The official opening
of the bridge has been decided to eventuate
on the 6th of next month, and with weather
permitting should be Towamba's day out. Rabbit
canning is still alive, and so are the rabbits!
very much so. Mr. Inglis, the travelling
expert, gave a very clear and comprehensive
address to a small, but very interested body
of citizens at the hall last night. Mr. Jno
Hearnbready occupied the chair, and very
keen attention was paid to the lecturer.
Mr. W. Beasley asked what distance rabbits
could be conveyed to the works. Mr. Ingles
replied: 30 miles each way, which gives a
diameter of 60 miles, and can be worked at
that radius. Councillor Geo. Keys explained
that rabbits could be carried at a cost Id
per pair for that radius of 60 miles. Mr.
G. Dark asked Mr. Ingles if he had had experience
in canning fruits in conjunction with meat
works, and was answered in the negative,
but Mr. Inglis failed to see why it could
not be carried on in the same premises. Mr.
H. Kranstuyver, of New Buildings, is engaged
canvassing for shares for the company, and
so far, has almost 2,000 shares applied for.
Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Rixon are the proud
parents of a first and only son. Mr. and
Mrs. George Parker, ditto, of a first and
only daughter, and all concerned are doing
well.
'Southern Star'
October 18, 1911
Mr. "Jack" Shelley, son of Mr.
Thos. Shelley, of the Kiah, is to marry Miss.
May McKee, of Towamba.
Pambula Voice' April 21, 1911
TOWAMBA
* The corn is ripening very quickly this
year, and crops will be on an average with
last year.
* Most of the people are suffering with a
mild from of influenza; mild as it may be,
it is a most distressing complaint. A good
many have had to lay up for two or three
days with it.
* Mrs. T. Hill, who was doing business for
Mr. Robinovitz, of Eden, has closed, owing
to Mr. Robert Binnie purchasing Mr. Robinovitz''s
business in Eden.
Friday 4, October, 1912
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
SLIPPED ON AN ADZE.
BOMBALA,
* An unmarried man, John Umback, aged 40,
farmer, living at White Rock, 20 miles from
Bombala, met with a serious accident on Wednesday,
while engaged building a shed on his selection.
He was squaring a post with a very sharp
adze, when he slipped on the instrument,
gashing his kneecap to the bone.
The unfortunate man bound up the wound as
well as he could, with portions of his clothing
and improvised a splint for the leg. Being
alone, he had to crawl painfully two miles
through bush before he could get aid.
November 1, 1913
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
* A sad drowning fatality took place at
Towamba last Satur day, at about 3.30 p.m.
'Mavis Beasley, youngest daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Wm Beasley, with other children,
were bathing in the river near a deep hole.
Poor little Mavis got out of her depth, and
it was over half-an-hour before the body
was recovered. Every effort was made to restore
respiration but to no avail. Much sympathy
is felt for the bereaved parents. Mr. Beasley
was in Eden when the trouble took place.
Constable Dunn was on the scene at once and
rendered event assistance.
'The Shoalhaven News and South Coast Districts
Advertiser'
26 September 1914
ACCIDENTALLY SHOT.
* Mr. Gerald Mitchell, 25, son of Councillor
and Mrs. J. T. Mitchell, of Lower Towamba,
accidentally shot himself on Wednesday, and
died the same day from the effects of the
wounds received. He left his home with a
breech -loading gun, and it is surmised that
in getting through a fence the hammer caught
and caused the charge to explode. When he
was found the deceased was unconscious, and
remained so to the end.
August 29, 1917
'Southern Star'
* W. I. Brown, auctioneer, reports the private
sale of Mrs Geo. Poardman's land and residence,
Bega, to Mrs R. Hazelgrove, of Towamba.
December 6, 1918
'The Bombala Times'
Coaching Accident near Eden.
On Saturday, Nov. 23rd, a coaching accident
happened near Eden, and as a result one of
the victims now lies in Pambula Hospital.
Miss Lizzie Love, of Towamba, was driving
a pair of horses in a coach to Eden, and
was accompanied by Mrs. E. Love and two children,
of Towamba, one child four years of age and
the other an infant in arms. All went well
until when within a quarter of a mile of
Eden, when one of the jack-clips broke and
the pole dropped on to the horses' heels,
and they became excited and made off. After
the clip broke the coach swung away from
the horses, the pole only holding by one
clip. Miss Love became excited and endeavored
to get clear of the trap, but her clothing
evidently became entangled in the brake,
with the result that she was thrown across
the front wheel and dragged some distance,
being severely injured about the lower part
of the body. Mrs. Love was thrown forward
out of the trap on to the pole, and was carried
on until the horses, having turned on to
a side road, crashed into a tree, when they
broke away with part of the pole and harness.
Mrs. Love was pinned beneath the broken pole
and axle, and was unable to move until help
arrived and the wheel of the coach was removed.
She was found to be considerably bruised
about the face and body, and after an examination
by Dr.Harris, who was summoned, he pronounced
her to be suffering from three broken ribs
and many bruises. The infant child, when
its mother was thrown from the coach, fell
clear of the vehicle and horses, and escaped
with a few bruises on the face. The other
child clung to the seat and received a sprained
wrist and bruises on the face. When the coach
struck the tree it was badly broken. Miss
Love was conveyed to Pambula on Monday morning.
The Love family are having a run of bad luck,
as Mr. Love died recently, and Mrs. Love
has been ill in Pambula Hospital for some
weeks, and now Miss Love is severely injured.
- Pambula 'Voice.'
February 1, 1919
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
* Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Binnie returned to
their home at Towamba a few days ago, and
were accompanied by Mrs. Chegwidden, who
will now make her home with them. Mr. Binnie
has spent a good deal of time with us during
recent months, and ingratiated himself with
very many people who previously only had
a casual acquaintance with him. He left here
a very popular man. We regret to learn that
since his return home he has had a hard fight
against bush fires.
'Singleton Argus'
11 March 1919
DELUGE AT EDEN.
'Man's Tragic End. '
An unprecedented flood is reported from Eden,
on the south coast. Within one week 33 inches
of rain fell on the hills, at the foot of
which the town lies. The river at Towamba
also rose; with remarkable rapidity to a
height of 15 feet higher than any former
flood, and converted Towamba Valley into
a gigantic sea. A tragic event occurred.
A man, whose name is yet unknown, and who
had apparently been washed down stream, was
observed clinging to a swaying telephone
pole, the top of which projected a few feet
above the seething waters. He climbed the
pole, and grasping the wire on either side,
remained thus supported nearly an hour, during
which the onlookers were powerless to render
the slightest assistance. Finally, a large
tree floating down among the debris caught
the wire and submerged the pole, and with
it the distressed man, who, engulfed in a
torrent, was seen no more.
The Southern Record and Advertiser
22 March 1919
Snips and Scraps.
* A good fencer is a handy man since the
flood. Fox skins are selling at 16s 6d each.
* Towamba Bridge, swept away by the recent
flood, cost about £6000 a few years ago.
* Asked by a Sydney magistrate what her religion
was, a woman replied 'Housework.'
* Great institutions are always the work
of a few individuals, and their destruction
is the work of the mob.
April 5, 1919
'The Bega Budget'
* Word was received in Bega on Thursday
that a man named Herman Bollman had shot
himself at Towamba. It appears that the man
left his home at 7 o'clock in the morning
and at 3 o'clock the same day his body was
found with the top of his head blown off.
The remains were interred at Eden today.
September 3, 1920
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
WHALES CAPTURED
INCIDENT IN TWOFOLD BAY
EDEN
* Yesterday, at Twofold Bay, Master Whaler
George Davidson and his crew of Kiah whalers
effected the capture of a couple of right
whales, the value of which is estimated at
not less than £750 to £800.
Early yesterday morning the whales, were
observed in Snug Cove, where they were bailed
up by a number of killers. Signals to the
station at Kiah River soon brought whalers
on the scene, and George Davidson made fast
to one of the whales, which endeavoured to
make off, but was kept in check by the killers.
For some time the conflict was confined to
Snug Cove, the whale at times passing close
to the wharf, which was crowded with spectators.
Ultimately the harpooned whale broke away,
and, with the whaleboat in tow, worked round
Cattle Bay, thence to Boyd Town and towards
East Boyd, where it succumbed to the combined
attacks of the whalers and the killers.
George Davidson then made fast to the second
whale, which had remained in, the vicinity
of its mate. The line, however, broke, and
the whale went outward round South Head until,
headed by the whaleboat and launches, it
turned backward, as if intending to rejoin
its mate. Ultimately George Davidson made
good with another harpoon, and, lancing repeatedly,
scored with a kill at about midday. In the chase and capture of
the second whale one killer only, participated,
the others being busily engaged appropriating
their share of the whale first captured.
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
6 October 1920
LOST IN THE BUSH.
ELEVEN DAYS WITHOUT FOOD.
On the morning of last Friday week, September
24, William Parker, a former resident of
Towamba,- essayed to travel on foot about
eight miles across thick bush country from
Nethercote to the Eden-Towamba road on his
way to Towamba. Not arriving at his destination
within reasonable time, inquiries were made
throughout the district without satisfactory
result. Search parties were organised, as
many as 40 persons scouring the bush for
several successive days without being able
to trace his whereabouts. Yesterday the search
was given up as futile. All hope of discovering
the missing man alive was abandoned. This
morning, however, Mr. Tom Hite, sawmiller,
of Towamba, was drawing logs some miles out
in the Jingera Ranges when he saw staggering
towards him a man who proved to be Parker.
He, it seems, had despairingly sunk down
exhausted the night before, but the next
day, bearing timber-getters in the vicinity,
had struggled to his feet and staggered forward
with his last remaining strength about 60
yards to reach them. His appearance was wretched
in the extreme. Lost and foodless for 11
days, weakened and worn out by almost incessant
walking through rough and mountainous bush
country, he was reduced to a walking skeleton.
His face and body were terribly lacerated,
and most of his clothes were torn off as
the result of forcing his way through dense
jungle scrub, which left him almost nude.
After drinking some hot tea and eating lightly
he revived, and later was taken to Towamba,
where his relatives reside. He is well known
throughout the district, and is 65 years
of age.
'The Sydney Stock and Station Journal'
5 November 1920
100 YEARS OLD.
* On Saturday evening relatives and friends
of Mr. George Martin assembled at Towamba,
South Coast, to congratulate him on attaining
his 100th birthday. Mr. Martin has all his
faculties, and takes fairly long walks unattended.
July 19, 1922
'Sydney Mail'
102 YEARS OLD.
* George Martin, of Towamba, 18 miles from
Eden, South Coast of New South Wales, whose
portrait is given here, saw the first railway
run from Manchester to Liverpool and the
first steamer that crossed the Atlantic.
He came to Australia 72 years ago, and went
on the land at Towamba afterwards, making
a good living from it. He never had an illness
worth mentioning, and is still a hale man,
able to walk up steps with the aid of a stick.
His sight is still so good that he puts in
most of his time reading. His wife, to whom
he was married in Sydney in 1854, also lived
to be a good age.
![]() |
George Martin |
'Magnet' January 19, 1923
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
102 YEARS OLD
DANCES A JIG
ENTHUSIASTIC CENTENARIAN
* At Mr. Chapman's meeting at Towamba, in
the Eden-Monaro electorate recently, Mr.
George Martin, who is 102 years of age, moved
a vote of thanks to Mr. Chapman, who, at
the close of the meeting, offered the old
gentleman a lift in his motor car. "I
won't bother you, thanks," replied the
centenarian, "I have only a mile and
a half to go", and he then danced a
jig in the roadway to show his agility.
November 21, 1924
'The Braidwood Dispatch and Mining Journal'
* Mr. George Martin, of Towamba, Bega district,
celebrated his 104th birthday on October
28th.
Friday 25 September, 1925
'The Sydney Morning'
A CENTENARIAN.
LATE MR. GEORGE MARTIN.
* Mr. George Martin, senior, Eden district's
centenarian, and Towamba's "grand old
man", died at his home at Towamba yesterday
evening, aged 104 years. Had he lived till
November 28 he would have attained his 105th
anniversary of his birthday.
Until within the last two years Mr. Martin
enjoyed good health, and on the occasion
of the last Federal election, walked unassisted
a mile to record his vote, as he subsequently
said, in favour of the present member for
Eden-Monaro, Sir Austin Chapman. Mr. Martin
was a native of England, and came to Eden
nearly 80 years ago, and lived in Towamba
73 years.
TOWAMBA
* Had visiting picture shows at local hall.
'The Southern Mail'
22 January 1926
A Prolific Hen.
How is this for a record? A hen belonging
to Mr. Frank Scanes, of Towamba, laid away,
sat on 39 eggs, and brought out 35 chickens,
all of which are doing well. The hen is an
Orpingto-Rhode Island Red cross.
July 15, 1927
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
* Mr Dave Farrell, of Towamba, recently had
his leg crushed against a tree by a bullock
waggon, and the limb had to be amputated.
February 3, 1928
'The Bombala Times'
* Mr. J.H. Ryan, of Towamba, has leased his
property to Mr. C. S. Logan, and has gone
to live in Sydney.
August 28, 1928
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
ALLAN v ALLAN.
* In this suit, Elsie Gertrude Mitchell
Allan (formerly Clements) petitioned for
a divorce from Sydney Eden Allan on the ground
of desertion. The parties were married on
August 9, 1919, at Towamba, New South Wales,
according to the Presbyterian rites. Respondent
filed an answer denying the charge, but did
not appear, and his Honor granted petitioner
a decree nisi, returnable in six months.
Mr. Toose (instructed by Messrs. Chas. A.
Morgan, Doust, and Co.) appeared for petitioner.
'Magnet' March 1929
* Towamba village still called ' Sturt' .
(Village of Sturt changed to Towamba on 13-5-1975
in Government Gazette.)
'Magnet' July 13, 1929
TOWAMBA
* One of our oldest residents in the person
of Mr. Allan Laing has been in failing health
for some time. His condition is very low
and is causing anxiety to his relatives and
friends.
* Mrs. R. Brownlie who has been an inmate
of Bega hospital is, we are sorry to say,
still very ill.
* Mr. H. Richards, who went to Sydney for
eye treatment is by latest report, much improved.
* Mr. Bert Green, returning home to St. Mary's
last week after spending a months' holiday
with his brother.
* Congratulations to Mr.& Mrs. M. McMaster
on the birth of a daughter, their third born.
* Mr. Ken McLeod has disposed of part of
his farm. Mr. M. McMaster being the purchaser.
* This winter has been the driest experienced
here for years and a few showers of rain
would be acceptable. Water tanks are getting
low.
![]() |
THREE WOMEN IN APPLE ORCHARD. Left - Unknown. Centre - Florrie Beasley. Right - Mary McDonald. No date |
'Magnet' September 14, 1929
TOWAMBA
* Mrs. Donald Laing who has been far from
well is in Pambula with relatives and is
being attended by the local doctors. We hope
to hear soon of her speedy recovery.
* In anticipation of a good season everyone
is taking a great interest in their vegetable
garden. Let us hope weather conditions continue
favourable and that they reap a good reward
. Aub, our cricket enthusiast, means to have
the king garden of the season and with a
couple of acres of alluvial flat declares
that he will produce vegetables capable of
taking prizes at a Royal Show. His slogan
is 'Eat more vegetables'. Good luck to him
anyhow.
![]() |
TOWAMBA STORE. c. 1929 |
'Magnet' October 12, 1929
* Mr. Charles Roberts - Towamba's oldest
pioneer at 85 years had a birthday.
* Village of Sturt referred to by Council
in Council notes.
* Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Clements - 'Tyrone'
Towamba.
* Pericoe and Towamba locals - Beasley, Parker,
Love, McLeod, Smith, McDonald, Browne, Binnie,
Dickie, McMaster, Logan, Clements.
![]() |
Towamba blacksmith's shop. 'S. L. Martin General Blacksmith' on the sign above the door. No date. |
'Magnet' April 12, 1930
TOWAMBA
* Word has been received here that Mr. Tom
Legge underwent a successful operation in
a Sydney hospital. His many friends wish
him a quick recovery.
* Mrs. S. McCauley accompanied by Miss Ida
Roberts left for the former's home in Queensland.
* The death of a former Towamba resident
in the person of Mrs. R. Bollman took place
at Belmore recently.
'Magnet' August 2, 1930
* Burragate whooping cough epidemic.
* H. J. South managed 'Nungatta Station'
in 1917. Later joined by Mrs. South. In later
years about January 1932, they moved to 'Oaklea'.
Lloyd South was born at Pericoe 1934.
![]() |
Old blacksmith's shop. Towamba Photo K. Clery |
'Magnet' June 6, 1931
TOWAMBA
* Miss Jean Parker underwent an operation
in Bega hospital Wednesday in last week and
latest reports state that she is much brighter.
* Mrs. C. Beasley has returned from several
months stay in Sydney where an operation
to which she found it necessary to undergo
proved successful.
. * Ray Beasley had a trip to Pambula a few
days ago and brought back Miss McDonald and
Mr. Doyle from the hospital. Mr. Doyle was
pleased to be home after several weeks absence.
* Mrs. Hartneady took another bad turn a
few days ago but fortunately and happily
is improving again.
* Mr. Robert Ingram been at Nungatta for
12 months, returns to his farm at Pericoe.
* Mr. John Mitchell of 'Hayfield'
* Mrs. Fred McPaul and family spending school
holidays at their property at Pericoe.
* Mrs. L. Love of 'Elmgrove'.
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![]() |
Arthur Clements and brother. No date. Photo courtesy C. and G. Clements |
Robinson children. Towamba. No date. Photo courtesy M. Mitchell |
'Magnet'
May 16, 1936
READ THIS OUT ALOUD
I had twelve bottles of whisky and my wife
told me to empty the contents of each and
every bottle down the sink. Being an obedient
husband I proceeded to do as my wife desired
and withdrew the cork from the first bottle.
I poured the contents down the sink with
the exception of one glass which I drank.
I then drew the cork from the second bottle
and did likewise with the exception of one
glass which I drank. I extracted the cork
from the third bottle, emptied the good old
booze down the bottle except one glass which
I devoured. I then got out the fourth cork
and emptied the sottle down the bink except
one glass which I accepted. Then I pulled
the cork from the fifth sink and poured the
bottle down the glass then I drank some.
I pulled the bottle from the next cork and
drank one sink out of it then I threw the
rest down the drink. I pulled the sink out
of the cork and poured the next bottle out
of my throat and poured the cork down the
sink, all but one sink which I sank. I pulled
the next cork from my neck, poured the sink
down the bottle and drank the cork which
I drank. When I had them all emptied I steadied
the house with one hand and counted the bottles
which were twenty-four, I also counted them
when they came around again and I had seventy-four
and as the houses came round I counted them
again and finally I had the houses and all
the bottles counted. I proceeded to wash
the bottles but could not get the bottles
in the brush or sink so I turned them inside
out except for the corks and washed them
all under the taps and went upstairs and
told my other half what I did and, Oh Boy!
I have the wifest little nice in the world.
June 18, 1937
'The Southern Record and Advertiser'
* The late Mrs. A. C. Weatherhead, who died
at Bega recently, was the widow of the late
Wm. Weatherhead, who pioneered the Nungatta
Station, over Towamba way, in the early days.
She was a member of the well-known Black
family, of Ayrdale. Mr. George Black, of
Candelo, is a brother.
'Magnet' February 12, 1938
MOUNT DARRAGH
HOW IT WAS DISCOVERED
(To the Editor) (Some of the words are missing
in this letter.)
Sir, I am about to write something here which
I never wrote before, it is how I discovered
the eminent mountain that bears my name -
Mount Darragh. Well, Sir, many years ago,
at a point about three miles on the road
between Bega and Candelo, many times I have
said to companions riding with me "I
wonder what that conspicuous point is looking
south-westerly from this place on the Bega
road to the top of the range that runs for
miles north and south ....range on which
Mount Darragh....................attention-inviting
peak.............and I often used to wonder
where exactly the point stood. So, one day
when out surveying I levelled the theodolite
and turned the telescope in the direction
in which my line was to proceed, and I told
my men to continue clearing, as I believed
I was somewhere in the vicinity of the mountain
I wanted to see at close quarters. And my
belief was correct, as I soon discovered,
for I found that I was at the foot of that
marvelous peak. So I started off, and I noticed
that I was quickly rising over the top of
what is now named Mount Darragh. When I reached
the top of that lovely viewpoint, what a
sight I beheld! I could see the vast Pacific
gleaming in the sunlight, and the intervening
Far South area from Mount Dromedary and the
Tilba Tilba country to Mount Imlay on the
south of Twofold Bay - a glorious panorama.
I lost no time in writing to the heads of
the Geodetic Branch informing them of my
great discovery, and they lost no time in
verifying my report and placing my discovery
on permanent record. They immediately sent
to the district a surveyor named Mr. Taylor,
and he and his men felled all the trees on
and near the summit and built a cairn on
top of the peak whose name, is Mount Darragh,
thanks to my discovery...........can be seen
from the point on the Bega-Candelo road where
I first noticed the peak whose site I was
the first to discover. The name of the beacon
or cairn must be named after the parish in
which the beacon stands.
But my object in writing has reference to
a matter that may be of even more importance
than the discovery of the mountain, namely
the purpose for which the mountain summit
may be utilised. I have heard it stated that
the Government intends to build an astronomical
observatory on the top of Mount Darragh,
and if that is done an astronomical station
established there will be one of the most
important in the world. It has occurred to
me that an inquiry per medium of the "Magnet"
may elicit authoritative information on the
subject; hence this epistle. Thanking you
in advance for the space to kindly accorded
me.
Yours faithfully,
C.H.Darragh.
Magnet
August 16, 1979
TOWAMBA PROGRESS ASSOCIATION
A short meeting was held on Wednesday August
8th at Towamba School. The most pleasing
thing to come from the meeting was a letter
from the Geographical Names Board giving
its approval for the naming of the creek
running through Towamba to the Towamba River,
'Bens Creek'. This name was suggested by
the Progress Association to honour Mr. Ben
Beasley who after a great deal of service
to the local community passed away last year.
It was decided that the Association would
assist the local school with the transport
of treated pine posts from Rocky Hall. This
material is to be erected into fixed playground
equipment.