Seventy five members and friends attended the Society’s first meeting of 2023. Guest speaker, Judith Dunn OAM, had the audience gasping in wonder and amazement as she recounted the lives of some of the former residents of Parramatta. Her through research brought forth the now forgotten stories of people in the arts, industry, the hardship and determination and the social attitudes of England and the Colony at that time.
So often women were the unacknowledged, yet they were the driving force that established much of what we now take for granted; often raising families of unimaginable numbers of children, over twenty in many cases.
Eager to learn more about Parramatta and its people, the Society will visit the city for the first tour of the year on Thursday the 23rd March. Mrs Dunn will be the guide, so members are assured of an enjoyable day.
As the new Galston swimming pool takes shape readers may wonder where swimming took place in earlier years. Those who remember the 1940s and 50s can, with misty eyes or a cheeky grin, give the answer; Fosters Waterhole. At the end of Thomas Road Galston, this permanent water supply played a most important part in agriculture and the sporting and social life of the area. Society member, Judy Horton OAM has, with her research and the many fond memories of others, prepared an entertaining and informative talk for the meeting on Saturday the 11th March. Visitors are most welcome and Judy would appreciate seeing any photographs that add to the history of this most special place in our community.
The meeting will be in the Uniting Church, School Road Galston beginning at 2.00pm. Entry is free with a gold coin for afternoon tea. Enquiries to Michael on 9653 1365.
