Central Coast Rotary Clubs will unite to present an Australia Day Heritage Family Picnic at Terrigal Haven on January 26.
Spokesperson Peter Rea said the event follows a similar day held last year in association with the National Australia Day Council (NADC) at Kincumber.
“That event focussed on the nationally significant maritime history of the Brisbane Water District and its proud shipbuilding heritage,” he said.
“The Sausage Sizzle was supplemented with giveaways of fresh fruit and mini jars of Vegemite, while a number of young performers provided entertainment.
“The event was officially opened with an Acknowledgement To Country and a Smoking Ceremony, while an Aboriginal cultural marquee was set up adjacent to the History Display Marquees.”
Rea said the four Rotary Clubs of Kincumber, Terrigal, Erina and Kariong/Somersby were joining forces again this year in association for the Terrigal event.
“The Timber Mill and Shipyard of Thomas Davis occupied the site from the late 1860s until the 1890s,” he said.
“New history displays will include a model of the Steam Stern-Wheeler General Gordon and a working model of its twin steam engines and paddle wheel.
“The General Gordon was famous as the ship that linked the nation while Woy Woy Tunnel and the Hawkesbury River Rail Bridge were constructed.
“In remembrance of the sawmill that once was on the site, a model steam driven Sawmill will also be on display.
“Other displays will include information models of the five main types of sailing ships built in the Brisbane Water District from the 1830s; the TSS Fairstar, synonymous with migration to Australia after WWII; a model of the Long Boat from HMS Sirius, which carried Governor Arthur Phillip on the first European exploration of Brisbane Water in 1788; and a cutaway and full model of HMS Sirius.
The day gets underway at 9am with the official opening at 11am comprising an Acknowledgement To Country and Smoking Ceremony.
Entertainment will continue throughout the day, with a free sausage sizzle available for lunch.
Source: Media release, Jan 16, 2023, Rotary Kincumber