Gerringong Local History
Gerringong is a small coastal town located in the municipality of Kiama in New South Wales, Australia. The town has a rich history that dates back to early European settlement in the 19th century.
The name Gerringong is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "fearful place" or "place of many sharks". The area was home to the Wodi Wodi people who relied on the nearby ocean for food and resources.
In 1824, Lieutenant-Colonel Kenneth Snodgrass was granted 640 acres of land in the Gerringong area, which he named Fernhill Farm. Snodgrass established a successful dairy farm, as did other early European settlers who were attracted to the region's fertile land and temperate climate.
In the late 19th century, Gerringong became a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque beaches and natural beauty. The town's first guesthouse, the Ocean View Hotel, was built in 1885, followed by several other hotels and guesthouses.
During the early 20th century, Gerringong experienced rapid growth and development. The town's first cinema, the Strand Theatre, opened in 1915, and a new post office was built in 1930. The railway line from Sydney was extended to Gerringong in 1893, which further boosted the town's economy and population.
Gerringong played a significant role in Australia's wartime efforts during World War II. The town's beaches were used for training exercises, and nearby Gerroa was home to a radar station that monitored Japanese naval movements in the Pacific.
After the war, Gerringong continued to grow and evolve, with new residential and commercial developments springing up throughout the town. In 1969, the Kiama Municipality was formed, and Gerringong became part of this local government area.
Today, Gerringong is known for its stunning coastline, surf beaches, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. The town is a popular holiday destination for families and tourists, with a wide range of accommodation options and leisure activities on offer.
Gerringong's rich history is evident in its many heritage-listed buildings, including the post office, the railway station, and the Ocean View Hotel. The Gerringong Historical Society is also actively involved in preserving the town's unique heritage and history.