The Myall Coast Local History
Local History of Myall Coast, NSW, Australia
Myall Coast is a region situated on the east coast of New South Wales, Australia. The area covers the coastal communities from Hawks Nest in the south to Seal Rocks in the north, and surrounds the Myall Lakes. The region has a very rich history, with evidence of indigenous occupation dating back over 6,000 years. Here is a brief summary of the local history of the region:
Indigenous History
The Worimi people are the traditional owners of the land in the Myall Coast region. They have lived in this area for over 6,000 years, and have a deep connection to the land and waterways. The Worimi people were skilled hunters and gatherers, living off the fish, shellfish, and wildlife in the region. They also used the natural resources of the area to create tools, weapons, and shelter. The Worimi people have a rich cultural heritage, which is still celebrated and passed down through the generations.
Early European Settlement
The Myall Coast region was first explored by Europeans in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The explorers were drawn to the area by the abundance of resources, including timber, fish, and fertile land. The first European settlement in the region was at Port Stephens, which was established in 1791.
In 1823, a penal colony was established at Port Macquarie, which is located approximately 130 km north of Myall Coast. The penal colony was designed to house convicts who had re-offended, and was one of the largest in the colony of New South Wales at the time. Many convicts were sent to work in the timber industry in the Myall Coast region, which was booming at the time.
The Myall Coast region was one of the main timber producing areas in New South Wales during the 19th century. The timber was mainly used for building and furniture, and was in high demand in Sydney and other growing cities. The timber industry was an important source of employment for the region, with many sawmills being established in towns such as Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.
As the demand for timber grew, so did the industry. The timber was transported from the Myall River to the sawmills by boat, and then transported by ship to Sydney and other markets. The industry continued to grow until the early 1900s, when the supply of timber began to dwindle.
During World War II, the Myall Coast region played a crucial role in the defence of Australia. The coastline was heavily fortified with coastal batteries and searchlights, and many military installations were established in the area. The strategic importance of the region was due to its proximity to Newcastle and the major industrial centres of the Hunter Valley.
The region also saw a significant increase in population during the war, as many military personnel and their families were stationed in the area. This led to the establishment of new towns, such as Pindimar and Karuah, which still exist today.
Today, the Myall Coast region is a popular tourist destination, with its pristine beaches, waterways, and national parks. The region has a thriving tourism industry, with many visitors coming to enjoy the natural beauty, fishing, and water sports. The area is also popular with retirees and those seeking a more relaxed way of life, with many new housing developments and retirement villages being established in recent years.
The rich history and cultural heritage of the Myall Coast region are still celebrated today, with many community events and festivals being held throughout the year. These events are a testament to the enduring spirit of the region and its people.