History of Bonville Reserve ‘a great read’

BEFORE Ossie Sawtell created his village in 1927, people regularly picnicked at the reserve across the creek.

The Sawtell Historical Society has just released a history of the reserve titled “Bonville Reserve, The Manly of the North”, compiled by Society Secretary Marie Davey.

The booklet details the development of the reserve over the years including the establishment of tennis courts in 1925 and the opening of the hall in 1929.

It captures memories of people who lived on the reserve, the games and sports they played and the dances and events they held.

Called Bongil Bongil by Gumbaynggirr people, it was gazetted as Bonville Reserve in 1904.

William Harvie first camped there in 1863 and it became a place for people to live and visit.

When the North Coast Railway was completed by the 1920s, families from Sydney took advantage of free rail travel to visit.

Since then it has been a focus for the residents of Sawtell and beyond.

Launching the booklet, Society President Pam Worland, said, “We hope you will be interested in this unique piece of Sawtell history.”

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams helped with the launch.

She said she loves history and that “it is what makes us proud”.

“It shows us what values we want to make sure we preserve.

“We are very proud of our small museum and the beautiful spot it’s in.”

Cr Williams stressed that it is the people who make a place great.

Ms Davey said the booklet is a “great read” for new and long-term residents alike, and helps preserve family legacies.

The Society has two previous publications, “The Early Days of Sawtell” and “The People Who Shaped Our Village”.

By Andrew VIVIAN