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.
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|
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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| William and Helena Ryan (nee Kerr). No date |
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| Old blacksmith's shop. Towamba Photo K. Clery |
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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' 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.
![]() |
| 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.