Pictorial History Hawkesbury

Pictorial History Hawkesbury by Michelle Nichols is a new book in the famous series of pictorial histories which cover the suburbs of Sydney. The Hawkesbury district in Sydney¿s west was once home to many Australians and in the early 19th century had the second highest population in the colony. In the first few decades of the 1800s the Hawkesbury region was one of the major settlements alongside Sydney and Parramatta. Indeed many Australians can trace their origins (both convict and free) to this district. In the Hawkesbury history suburbs extending from Bilpin, Colo, Ebenezer, Kurrajong, Mount Tomah, Richmond, Windsor and Wiseman¿s Ferry are represented in a wide range of black and white photographs. The book includes the historic areas of Cattai, Riverstone, Londonderry and Yarramundi. With over 190 rare and interesting photographs it is a fascinating overview of the history of the area from Aboriginal to modern times.

Pictorial History Lower North Shore was first released in 1984 and reprinted in 1987, with a new edition printed in 2014. This edition is completely revised and updated. The book covers the North Shore from Milson's Point, taking in North Sydney, Lavender Bay, Willoughby, Chatswood, Crows Nest, St Leonards, Neutral Bay, Cremorne, Kirribilli and Northbridge. The construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Expressway, the social and cultural life north of the Bridge, and the early days of the aboriginal inhabitants and white settlers are explored. The book includes new photographs and maps, and a chronology, bibliography and index. It retails for $24.95. Written by Catherine Warne.

The Pictorial History Blacktown & District is the one of the latest titles in the famous series of pictorial histories covering the suburbs of Sydney and outlying cities. It is a comprehensive journey through the pictorial history of the Blacktown area, from the early settlement days through to the newest of suburbs. From Acacia Gardens, Arndell Park, Bidwill and Blacktown through to Toongabbie, Willmot and Woodcroft, the book details the history, features and highlights of all the suburbs of the area. It contains 150 black and white photographs. The book is a joint production of Kingsclear Books and Blacktown City Council, and was funded by the Federation Community Projects Programme.

The Hawkesbury River is the longest coastal river in New South Wales. A vital source of water and food, it has a long Aboriginal history and was critical for the survival of the early British colony at Sydney. The Hawkesbury’s weathered shores, cliffs and fertile plains have inspired generations of artists. It is surrounded by an unparalleled mosaic of national parks, including the second-oldest national park in Australia, Ku-ring-gai National Park. Although it lies only 35 km north of Sydney, to many today the Hawkesbury is a ‘hidden river’ – its historical and natural significance not understood or appreciated. Until now, the Hawkesbury has lacked an up-to-date and comprehensive book describing how and when the river formed, how it functions ecologically, how it has influenced humans and their patterns of settlement and, in turn, how it has been affected by those settlements and their people. The Hawkesbury River: A Social and Natural History fills this gap. With chapters on the geography, geology, hydrology and ecology of the river through to discussion of its use by Aboriginal and European people and its role in transport, defence and culture, this highly readable and richly illustrated book paints a picture of a landscape worthy of protection and conservation. It will be of value to those who live, visit or work in the region, those interested in Australian environmental history, and professionals in biology, natural resource management and education.

From the Aboriginal beginnings, early exploration and the building of such wonders as the Giant Stairway and the Scenic Railway, the famous buildings, writers and artists, including Bradman at Blackheath, the Chinese people and the pioneers. This book covers the history of all the towns over the mountains through to the Jenolan Caves.