THE BATTLE OF EVERYDAY LIFE

Many country newspapers followed the format of including columns on the various small settlements in their district of circulation. The Eden 'Magnet' was no exception. It kept its readers up to date with most events and items of interest by gathering news from Towamba, Burragate and Pericoe and printing them in separate columns.
These snippets are from these columns and give the reader an idea of everyday events in these locations.

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.

View eastward 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.

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.

'The Sydney Morning'

Friday 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.

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.

January 27, 1933
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
HEAVY RAIN.
More Reports of Damage.

Further heavy rain has fallen on the South Coast and in parts of the south-west.
Following the registration of six inches to Tuesday, Eden received eight inches in three hours on Wednesday. Eighteen inches had fallen by yesterday morning.
Telephone and telegraphic lines went down in every direction. On Tuesday the mall services were held up, and telegraphic communication with Sydney was suspended Discolouration of the waters of the bay, and debris on the beaches indicate that many riverside farms were heavily floodswept, but particulars of the losses are not yet obtainable.
The overdue mail from Towamba was brought in yesterday by the mailman fording on foot the Nullica River, which is still dangerously high, and in flood. Saltwater Creek bridge, on the Prince's Highway, nine miles from Eden, on the road to Pambula, was washed away on Wednesday. Two men had just ridden across, when, on looking back, they saw it break in two.

'Magnet' April 7, 1934
* First Court of Petty Sessions at Eden was held on 7th July, 1847. Mr Charles Nagel was Clerk of Petty Sessions at Eden. Magistrates were O. Brierley, W, Campbell, James S. Walker. James Bisgrove was charged with stabbing one Lawrence Campbell "at a place called Tuamba, in the district of Maneroo".
* "In a list of aboriginals to whom blankets were distributed, fifty-four names appear. These include the famous Genoa Jack and other male celebrities and their wives."

'Magnet' April 28, 1934
* The first Justices of the Peace at Eden court were: W.Walker Jnr. (among others)
'
Monday 15 April 1861 'The Sydney Morning Herald'
* Twofold Bay.- 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.


'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.

'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.

'Pambula Voice' January 28, 1898
SAD SHOOTING FATALITY

News reached Pambula early on Wednesday morning that a young man named Arthur Smith had been shot dead the previous evening in between Rocky Hall and Burragate. The District Coroner Mr. C. A. Baddeley, on receiving news of the occurrence immediately proceeded to Rocky Hall to hold an inquiry and was accompanied by Dr. Stoney. Our Rocky Hall correspondent, writing on January 26, supplies the following particulars:
An accident of a fatal nature occurred here on Tuesday evening, the victim being Arthur Smith, a young man, 19 or 20 years of age and a resident of this neighbourhood. It appears that the deceased in company with a man named Donald Laing left his home about noon for the purpose of shooting hares and wallabies. When they reached the vicinity of the game they separated being within hearing of each other. Between five and six o'clock in the evening, having walked a considerable distance, Laing decided to return home so he "coo-eed" to Smith. As no response was forthcoming he grew somewhat anxious and proceeded to the spot where he last heard Smith fire a shot. After searching around for while he discovered the dead body of his comrade with a bullet wound in his head; the ball having entered just under the right eye and passed out at the back of his head. It is not known how the accident happened. Some are of the opinion that it was caused through the accidental explosion of a cartridge in the deceased's rifle, whilst others think it must have been stray bullet which occasioned the fatality.
A Coroner's inquiry is being held today. The deceased was a quiet and inoffensive young fellow and his loss will be keenly felt by his parents who were much dependent on him for support. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have the deepest sympathy of the whole community in their sad bereavement.


'Pambula Voice' January 28, 1898
LATE SHOOTING FATALITY NEAR ROCKY HALL
An inquiry was held on the 26th January before Mr. C. A. Baddeley, District Coroner and jury of five at the residence of Mr. John Robinson Snr, Burragate, touching the death of a young man named Arthur Smith who was shot dead while out wallaby shooting on the previous day. The jury was composed of the following gentlemen: Messers J. H. Martin (foreman), David Binnie, David Collins, H. A. Kraanstuyver and John McDonald. Evidence was given as under:
Vincent Meek as being duly sworn stated: Am a constable of police stationed at Wyndham. About twenty minutes past six yesterday evening I received a memo from the post master at Wyndham informing me that Arthur Smith had been found dead at 'Stony Batter' on the road from Wyndham to Rocky Hall. I proceeded at once to the place and there saw a body lying on the ground which I identified as that of Arthur Smith, son of William Smith of 'Reedy Creek'. The body was lying face downwards and both hands were under the body; the ground was uneven. About eight feet above the body I saw a Winchester rifle which I examined and found it contained an empty cartridge case No. 44 caliber. A loaded cartridge was also lying beside the rifle. Found a wound on the right cheek near the nose and another at the back of the head.
The jury returned the following verdict: We find that Arthur Smith of New Building, near Rocky Hall, in the District of Eden, and colony of New South Wales, on the 25th January, 1898, died from the effects of a rifle shot in the head and that the shot was accidentally discharged.

'Pambula Voice' February 25, 1898
PERICOE
It is with deep regret that I have to report the continued illness of the Pioneer of Pericoe, Mr. John Alexander who will be remembered went to Sydney a short time ago to seek medical aid. Many acts of kindness and sympathy performed by Mr. and Mrs. Alexander in times of sickness and trouble remain fresh in the minds of many in this locality and they now feel very grieved for him in his sore affliction. It is worthy of mention that Mrs. Alexander has set two broken arms of boys aged 13 and 12 years respectively, belonging to this neighbourhood and to say the least, they both got on splendidly.

'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.

'Pambula Voice' April 29, 1898
PERICOE

* Mr. Donald McDonald, I am sorry to say, still remains in a serious condition and shows little or no sign of improvement.

'Pambula Voice' June 10, 1898
PERICOE
* During the month of May, 2 inches 70 points of rain fell here although coming at the eleventh hour it has done much good but the weather has since been exceptionally cold. However, the outlook is now more cheering.
* I am pleased to be able to report that Mr. Donald McDonald shows signs of improvement. There is now good hope of his permanent recovery which I consider the most remarkable recovery that has come under my notice during a residence in the district of over fourteen years.

'Pambula Voice' July 1, 1898
BURRAGATE
* Our township is on the eve of progression, numerous allotments having been purchased for building purposes and when we have our "King" here, things should be lively.
* The bachelors of Burragate gave a very nice social to their friends last week and the event was in every way a success. The catering was got up by Mrs. Sawers in first class style (quite equal to the city) so much so that one young bachelor enjoyed it so well he has hardly recovered yet from his overdose of good things. I believe the honour of Belle is awarded to a young single lady not a thousand miles from 'Lyndhurst'.
* At a public meeting held here on the 25th instant it was decided to build a public hall, a wont long felt. A strong committee was formed and subscription lists opened. When erected the hall will be a great boon to the district.
* Our farmers are making active preparation to save plenty of winter fodder. Also a considerable quantity of wheat is being sown.
* Federation is still on the boom. The Major is coming and also a well-known Wyndham resident and if there is anything in patriotic songs the latter should certainly be returned. Our youthful Member should look to his laurels. I would urge all supporters of Federation not to pledge their votes till they see who else is coming.
* Our townsman Mr. W. J. Tweedie is making great improvements on his property and it will soon be the best improved farm around here. I believe he originally hailed from Victoria which accounts for it.

July 15, 1898
Proposed Hall at Burragate

* At a meeting of residents held on 9th July it was decided to have a School of Arts. I may also state that the promoters were Messrs. H.Kraanstuyver, J.Davidson, T. Robinson and Thomas Williams.

July 27 1900
Trustees at Burragate
* In a Government Gazette supplement of 14th inst., it is notified that Messrs. Samuel Thompson Shipway, John Richards and William Robinson have been duly appointed as trustees of the Wesleyan portion of the general cemetery at Burragate, dedicated 9th June 1897. A further notice appears in a Gazette supplement of 21st inst., appointing Messrs. S.T. Shipway, H.A. Kraanstuyver. Arthur and Robert Binnie, and Charles Robinson as trustees of Reserve No. 30, 373, at Burragate. area Ir.35 p., notified Dec. 27th, 1899, for Mechanics' Institute site.

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.

October 6, 1899
* The Federal Capital: TOWAMBA suggested as a suitable site.

January 12, 1900
* An area of land at Burragate has been gazetted as set apart for a site for the Mechanics Institute.

'Pambula Voice' September 28, 1900
PERICOE
* The little son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson who was knocked down by a dog and had his leg broken a few weeks ago is progressing satisfactorily thus adding another successful case of bone setting to the long list accomplished by Mrs. John Alexander.
* Mr. Donald McDonald who has been in a very precarious state of health for several years and who was treated by Ah Yeck and "Doctor" Carloo is still in a serious condition and has been sent to Sydney for medical treatment. It will be remembered that about two years ago a subscription list was got up to assist Mr. McDonald and his family, having a wife and three children who were in very poor circumstances and depended upon his brothers John and James for support. I am pleased to say that these brothers have now been relieved of further obligations in that respect as the wife of the invalid has received through her lawyer a legacy of over £600 by the death of a relative in England. Never was an inheritance more welcome and more deserving.

October 12, 1900
* Federal Capital Site... Orange, Yass and Southern Monaro considered to be equally suitable as sites.

'Pambula Voice' February 8, 1901

BURRGATE
* I regret to report that early on Sunday morning, the youngest daughter Janet, of Mr. and Mrs. Jas Sawers, while playing in the kitchen, accidently upset part of a kettle of boiling water upon herself. She was rather severely scalded from the hip down the back part of the legs but is now progressing favourably.

'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

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.

September 11, 1903
Burragate
* Mr. J. de Costa has removed into the house lately occupied by Mr. Geo Hyde, and intends opening a boarding house.

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.

May 25, 1906
Burragate

A large and enthusiastic meeting was held in the School of Arts on 19th inst. when it was decided to form a Progress Association.

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.

April 1, 1912
'The Sydney Morning Herald'
EXTRAORDINARY HEAVY RAIN
YAMBULLA

* The most terrible thunderstorm that has been experienced in the district occurred on Thursday night. Five inches of rain fell here in a very short time, 7 ½ inches at Pericoe and 15 inches at Towamba. A number of culverts have been washed away. The telephone lines have been interrupted. Mails are over-due and it is still raining.
BOMBALA -The heaviest thunderstorm experienced for several years broke over the town at 4 o clock on Thursday afternoon. The lightning was really awesome. In a few minutes 115 points of rain fell flooding the streets.

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.

'Magnet' January 19, 1929
'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.

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.

'Magnet' March 1929
* Towamba village still called ' Sturt' . (Village of Sturt changed to Towamba on 13-5-1975 in Government Gazette.)

'Magnet' June 22, 1929
* Mr. J. T. Mitchell of 'Hayfield' Pericoe

'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' August 3, 1929
BURRAGATE
* Mr. Jack Keys and family who have been spending the last few months on their Burragate property have returned to Bibbenluke.
* Mr. & Mrs. J. Keevers left this morning for Sydney to seek medical aid for their two children.

'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' February 15, 1930.
PERICOE
* Mr. and Mrs. Norburn of Bondi are spending their vacation with Mr. & Mrs. G. Arnold Snr., of Pericoe.
* Much credit is due to Mr. W. H. Love who, without the aid of the Council, is erecting a new and substantial culvert over the creek at his crossing.

'Magnet' February 22, 1930
BURRAGATE
* Mr. & Mrs. M. Ryan, Mr. & Mrs. N. Ryan and Mr. & Mrs. F. Kewen are holidaying in Sydney.
* Three good thunder storms during last week bringing about 70 points of rain for which we are very grateful.
* At a meeting of the local School of Arts on Wednesday evening last, Miss Keys was appointed treasurer for the forthcoming year. Miss M. Ryan was re elected secretary.

William and Helena Ryan
(nee Kerr).
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' January 31, 1931
* 'Daisy Hill' farm for sale.

'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'.
Arthur Clements and brother.
No date.
Photo courtesy C. and G. Clements
Robinson children. Towamba. No date.
Photo courtesy M. Mitchell


'Magnet' July 4, 1931
BURRAGATE
* Here we are again after a long spell occasioned by a dearth of news.
* Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Jos. Williams on the arrival of another daughter on the 1st instant.
* Mrs. A. Keys who was an inmate of the Pambula hospital, where she was operated on a week ago is now proceeding favourably.

'Magnet' July 11, 1931.
* Mrs. Love of 'Elmgrove'

'Magnet' August 8, 1931
* Mr. & Mrs. J. T. Mitchell of 'Hayfield' Pericoe are leaving there and living at Burragate.

'Magnet' September 5, 1931
BURRAGATE
* Mr. F. Umback is moving on to his property 'Marion'.

'Magnet' September 12, 1931
PERICOE
* Although we have been receiving our share of wind it does not blow up the much needed rain.
* Mr. & Mrs. L. Nicholson have taken up residence at 'Hayfield' and Mr. Nicholson is putting in good work on the property. Mr. Nicholson is a grandson of the Mrs. Nicholson of 'Wollingubrah' Bombala. He quite recently celebrated a 97th birthday. We wish our neighbours a successful and happy time in our midst.
* Miss Joyce Alexander who some time ago went to Canberra to take up nursing, is, so far, pleased with her profession and in a recent communication reported to her parents, Mr. & Mrs. A. E. Alexander of Pericoe House, "all's well."

'Magnet' October 3, 1931
PERICOE
* Snakes are again making an appearance. Quite a number have already met their "Waterloo".
* Mrs. L. M. Love is at present in Sydney seeking further medical advice. Mrs. Brownlie is also 'doing' the big smoke.

'Magnet' October 10, 1931
* Mr. A. L. Mitchell of Lower Towamba - son of Cr. Mitchell.

'Magnet' November 14, 1931
* Constable T. Gait of Cowra is spending his annual leave with his parents at Towamba.
* Miss May Parker holidaying with relatives in Bombala and Mila.
* Miss Thelda Hartneady holidaying with friends at Brogo.
* Mr. R. Doyle is not well.

'Magnet' December 26, 1931
TOWAMBA
* Here we are again to wish the editor and all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
* Messers E. Carragher and Lionel Roberts and Master Keith Whitby left on Monday last week to spend Christmas in the city.
* Mrs. Sam Legge is down from the north coast and holidaying with her parents, Mr. & Mrs. R. Doyle Snr.
* Miss Merle McLeod has returned from Cann River.
* Miss Bessie Gait has won a £5 prize in the State Lottery. The first prize to come here.
* Mrs. A. B. Alexander who has been staying with Mr. & Mrs. A. E. Alexander for some months, last week returned to Sydney.
* We report with regret that Mrs. Dorron and Mr. W. McCloy have not been well of late. All wish them a speedy recovery.

'Magnet' February 6, 1932
* Mr. J. H. Ryan of 'Glenor'.
* Mrs. S. H. Legge was a Doyle from Towamba. Mr. & Mrs. R. T. Doyle.

'Magnet' March 5, 1932
* Mr. Henry (Mick) Sawers of 'Jerusalem' Burragate. His sons, James Henry and Stan Sawers.
* Mr. James Beasley - daughters - Ida , Florence Isobel, and Thelma
son - Roy Beasley.

'Magnet' April 2, 1932
* Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Love - a daughter born at 'Elmgrove'.

'Magnet' April 30, 1932
* Mr. H. Rolfe 'Hayfield'.
* Wilf Ingram's farm 'Oaklands'.

'Magnet' May 28, 1932
* Kiah residents mentioned: John Ryan, Edmund Mitchell, J. T. Mitchell of 'Ivy Farm', Mr. Harris, Bernie Doyle, Ted Harris, Sylvie (Sylvester) Harris, Mr. James McMahon Snr., Tom Stevens, Bob Goward, John and Dan Kelly.
* Cochrane's Flat residents: Roger Whelan, Old Mrs. Whelan, Ned Richards, Tom Whelan, Jim and Will Whelan, Tom Powers, (property now owned by Robert Bruce and Tom McMahon), Bill Stevens.

'Magnet' June 18, 1932
* John Ryan's place now owned by Martin McMasters.

'Magnet' July 2, 1932
* Severe frosts.
* 7,250,000 possum and koala skins sold over last four seasons of hunting.
* Heaviest frosts seen for a long time.
'Magnet' July 16, 1932
TOWAMBA

* Good steady rain fell last week, 5 inches being recorded.
* Mrs. Hampden Beasley who underwent an operation for appendicitis in Pambula Hospital is doing well. Other patients from here are Mr. Ben Beasley Snr., and Mrs Alex Binnie of 'Log Farm' is an out door patient suffering from a fractured arm resulting from a fall.
* Mr. W. Parker is in Bega Hospital.
* Detective Sergeant Arnold of Sydney is down on a short visit staying with his parents at Pericoe.
* Quite a number of our men are receiving their share of a job on the Kiah Lower- Towamba relief work.
* Mr. Clyde Greer is still nursing a sprained ankle.
* Mrs. L. M. Love and the late Mr. Tom Love of 'Elmgrove'.

'Magnet' July, 1932
* The 'Big Jack Scheme' (Hydro Electricity)

'Magnet' August 6, 1932
* Mr. W. A. Green - Towamba J. P.
* Molly Shelley of 'Glenoak'.

'Magnet' October 8, 1932
* Gladys Maud Beileiter and Arthur Ernest Beileiter.
HARRY TASKER. TOWAMBA.
Jean McPaul Collection, Eden Killer Whale Museum
No date.


'Magnet' October 22, 1932
* Miss Ida Napier - daughter of Mr. & Mrs. T. Napier of Nungatta is nursing in Melbourne.

'Magnet' October 29, 1932
TOWAMBA
* Mr. Alex Binnie of 'Log Farm' has not been well of late.
* Messers J. Dickie and M. J. McLeod have gone off to Sydney for a couple of week's holiday.

'Sydney Morning Herald'
November 6, 1932

DEATH
BINNIE. At his residence, Towamba NSW. Alexander Binnie beloved husband of Sarah aged 74.


'Magnet' March 4, 1933
* Mr. & Mrs. F. Rugg left Nethercote to take over the working of Mr. A. L. Mitchell's dairy farm at Lower Towamba.

'Magnet' August 19, 1933
* Mr. South and Mr. Orman leased 'Daisy Hill'.
* Definition of war: A wholesale war, a means of making heroes which, if planned in a smaller way, would produce only murderers.
* Mrs. Ira Parker won £5,000 in lottery.

15 August, 1933
'The Sydney Morning Herald
'
* The £5000 prize in the 146th State lottery went to Towamba, the second prize to New Zealand, and the third to Canterbury.

'Magnet' September 2, 1933
For the cause that lacks assistance,
For the wrong that needs resistance,
For the future in the distance, and
the good that we can do.
Old Motto

'Magnet' March 24, 1934

* Mrs. William Keevers - her parents came to Burragate in 1894. She had a family of five sons and six daughters.

'Magnet' April 27, 1934
* Mr. W.A.Keys of Burragate has taken over the farm at Moeyan owned by Mr. H. Binnie and recently vacated by Mr. W. H. Clarke now of Brundee.
* Winter has set in with a vengeance, cold and bleak with heavy frosts in the mornings.
* Mrs. MacDonald returned home after several months holiday in the city accompanied by her daughter and son-in-law, Mr.and Mrs. Hines. Mr. Hines is on the staff of the G.P.O.
* We are losing from our midst Mr.& Mrs. Curtis and family who have made themselves very popular by helping and attending most functions. They intend making their home on the north coast.
* Our local anglers have been getting some good hauls of fish in Twofold Bay and intend trying the snapper grounds further out to sea at the weekend.

'Magnet' July 28, 1934

* Mr. H. Umback at 'Sheepskin'.
* Mr. W.A.Keys of Burragate has taken over the farm at Moeyan owned by Mr. H. Binnie and recently vacated by Mr. W. H. Clarke now of Brundee.
* Winter has set in with a vengeance, cold and bleak with heavy frosts in the mornings.
* Mrs. MacDonald returned home after several months holiday in the city accompanied by her daughter and son-in-law, Mr.and Mrs. Hines. Mr. Hines is on the staff of the G.P.O.
* We are losing from our midst Mr.& Mrs. Curtis and family who have made themselves very popular by helping and attending most functions. They intend making their home on the north coast.
* Our local anglers have been getting some good hauls of fish in Twofold Bay and intend trying the snapper grounds further out to sea at the weekend.

'Magnet' September 1, 1934
A correspondent corrects a statement which recently appeared in the Magnet to the effect that 'Oaklands' Pambula was built by (afterwards Sir) William Manning, he says that 'Oaklands' was built by Messers J. & W. Walker and that Mr. Manning acquired it by purchase from them.

BURRAGATE NOTES
* Mr. F. Umback who has been an inmate of Bombala Hospital as a result of a motor accident is expected to be home shortly.
* The Shire elections are being followed here with considerable interest and local residents confidently expect the river to be bridged by the new Council.

HUMOUR
GARDENER: 'I want a packet of May West seeds.
SHOP MAN: 'What do you mean?
GARDENER: ' The sort that will come up and see me some time.
*
Jones was one of those nervous persons whose imagination, at times, afflicts them with all kinds of ills which never materialise. One afternoon, long before his usual hour for returning from business, he staggered into the house. He was bent forward, he tottered to a chair and still curled into a half moon shape, dropped into it. 'Mary', he gasped. 'It's come at last. There was no warning. All of a sudden I found I couldn't straighten up. I can't lift my head. Hurry for the doctor!'
When the doctor had seen the patient, Mrs. Jones enquired, fearing the worst.
'Is there any hope?'
'Well, Madam', said the doctor. ' It would help a good deal if he will unhitch the third buttonhole of his vest from the top button of his trousers.'

BURRAGATE NEWS
* Master Ray Umback had the misfortune to gash his ankle with an axe last week.

'Magnet' December 15, 1934
BURRAGATE NEWS
* Residents are jubilant over the results of the Shire elections.

'Magnet' February 2, 1935
WYNDHAM
* Mr. George Edwards who has occupied Mrs. Pheeney's farm for the past twelve months held a clearance sale last Wednesday and has left the district.
* Whooping cough has been fairly prevalent amongst the children of the district, fortunately in a mild form.
* William Rixon and sons hold a special cattle sale on the 9th of February and a good yarding of cattle is anticipated .
* Rainfall for the month of January is registered locally as 341 points.

'Magnet' February 2, 1935
SAYINGS WORTH NOTING
* The greatest human achievement is to be useful.
* Until you attempt more, you will not accomplish more.
* The small deed is better than the grandest intention.
* To be happy at home is the ultimate result of all ambition.
* Your own breeding is your best security against other people's ill manners.
* If you cannot do great things you can do little things in a great way.
* A certain amount of opposition is a great help to a man.
* A kite flies against the wind, not with it.

* You are master of the unspoken word. The spoken word is master of you. Think before you speak.
* Better to appreciate what you cannot have than to have what you cannot appreciate.
* Make one person happy a day and in forty years you will have made 14,600 people happy, for a time at least.

BURRAGATE
* Sickness is again prevalent in our midst.
* Mrs. W. A. Keys underwent an operation in Bega Hospital last week. Her many friends wish her a speedy recovery.

'Magnet' March 9, 1935
PERICOE
* Mrs. F. Norburn of Bondi, Sydney, is spending a months' holiday with her parents, Mrs. & Mrs. G. Arnold. She arrived a few days ago.

'Magnet' June 1, 1935
BURRAGATE
* Empire Night was celebrated here with a bonfire and fireworks followed by a dance which was well patronised and most enjoyable.

'Magnet' June 15, 1935
TOWAMBA TOPICS
* Weather conditions continue cold and frosty. A few warm sunny days would be appreciated.
* Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. G. Dickie on the arrival of a daughter.
* Mrs. Doyle was removed to Pambula Hospital last week. Latest reports are satisfactory.
* This is quite a building boom in our town. Mr. A.J. Clements' new house is nearing completion and a new wine saloon is being erected by contractor Thoms to the order of Mrs. E.I. Parker.
* Miss Elva McLeod has returned home after spending some weeks' holiday with her aunt, Mrs. R. McPherson of Eden.
* Mr. & Mrs. Boller's little son Ray is under treatment of Drs.Wing for an injury to the hand.

'Magnet' June 22, 1935.
PERICOE
* The well known Sydney Detective Sergeant Mr. W. Arnold, left for the city last Monday after spending an enjoyable fortnight holiday with his parents.
* Miss J. Alexander has completed four years successful training as a nurse at the Canberra District Hospital and is at present staying at Pericoe House.
* About half the child population of the district has succumbed to the whooping cough epidemic.

'Magnet' September 14, 1935
A WORD TO THE WISE
The codfish lays 10,000 eggs,
the lowly hen lays one;
the codfish never cackles
to tell you what she's done;
and so we scorn the codfish,
and the homely hen we prize -
which demonstrates to you and me
that it pays to advertise.

'Magnet' September 21, 1935
PERICOE
* Mrs. A. Alexander and daughter, Miss Joy Alexander recently returned to Pericoe after an enjoyable fortnight's holiday in Sydney.


'Magnet' October 19, 1935
TOWAMBA
Light rain has fallen these last couple of days but heavier falls are urgently needed, the cultivation paddocks being so dry that many farmers have temporarily suspended planting operations in hopes of getting rain to help germination of crops.


'Magnet' October 26, 1935
Mr. J. Hartneady of Towamba had a bad turn on Thursday in last week.

'Magnet'
May 2, 1936
KIAH RIVER

* At a well attended meeting held in Kiah hall on the 26th ultimo it was decided to hold a hospital ball on May 29th. Mrs. R. J. Goward is secretary and with a strong committee to help her it should be a wonderful success.
* Heavy frost here this morning, the second so far, which is helping to ripen the maize.
* Dairying is still going ahead in our little centre, all hands are busy making provisions for the winter by filling pits, silo, etc.
* Those who have grown beans have received good prices for the green beans and also for seed.
* Mrs. Ken Rankin is in charge of our subsidised school.
* Mrs. E. H. Harris was an inmate of the Pambula Hospital for a few days last week but is now home and well. Jack Harris and Mrs. Ron Jones are both doing well after some weeks in hospital. They are expected home at the end of the week. We are pleased to see Mr. James McMahon Snr., is about again after his long illness.

'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.

'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.