Category: Crag Archives

The inaugural Sustainability Street meeting for residents of the Bulwark and adjoining streets, was held on Sunday, 12 March at the Haven Ampitheatre.

The Bulwark is the first street in Castlecrag to participate in the Sustainability Street program which is supported by Willoughby Council. The objective is to get people together to learn about ecological sustainability and to implement initiatives in their communities to achieve a more “earth friendly” environment now, and for future generations.

Broadly speaking, the three key areas of focus are Water, Waste and Energy. These three areas encompass a vast range of topics which will be covered in “bite-sized” pieces as the program unfolds. For example, most participants at our meeting indicated rainwater tanks were one of their key areas of interest. In May, our guest speaker will present on the subject of rainwater tanks looking at concepts such as what is available on the market, rebates from Sydney Water and the procedures and processes for getting the tanks installed.

So whether its rainwater tanks, Biodiversity and its relationship to our Castlecrag environment, or simply which household cleaners are more environmentally friendly, Sustainability Street has something for everyone.

Meetings for The Bulwark and adjoining streets will be held at the Haven Ampitheatre on the last Sunday of each month at 3pm. The topic for our 30 April meeting will be an Introduction to Sustainability Street, with guest speaker Erika Van Shelleback from Willoughby Council, who is also our mentor for the program.

All interested residents of Castlecrag are also invited to come along to the meeting to find out what Sustainability Street is all about and to discover its benefits to our Castlecrag community.

Contacts for Sustainability Street in The Bulwark are: Judy 9958 7981, Lorraine 9958 1213, Janet 9958 7723, Jill 9967 4933 and Robyn 9967 0634.

Still Available! Sydney Water Rebate for Rainwater Tanks

The drought has been a time when we all have learned to use water conservatively; Australia’s variable climate means that we can expect more droughts.

Sydney Water is encouraging everyone in Sydney to install a rainwater tank. Used correctly, rainwater tanks are an effective way to take the pressure off our limited water resources, and at the same time, help manage stormwater run-off. By storing rainwater run-off from your roof, rainwater tanks can provide a valuable water source for flushing toilets, in washing machines, watering gardens and washing cars.

The following information is from Sydney Water, and there is more advice at their website http://www.sydneywater.com.au/SavingWater/RainwaterTanks/

Using rainwater appropriately (and in conjunction with water efficient devices like dual flush toilets, showerheads with at least a AAA-rating, taps, tap aerators, trigger nozzles and tap timers) can save you money on water bills and help the environment by:

• conserving our valuable drinking water and reducing the demand on our water supply (conserving water also reduces the chemical and energy requirements for treating and transporting water to your home via the mains supply)

• reducing the amount of stormwater leaving your property by minimising flooding (using your rainwater for day-to-day purposes like toilet flushing helps create space in your tank for more water the next time it rains).

While the NSW Department of Health doesn’t advise using rainwater for drinking when there’s an alternative mains water supply available, we could save millions of litres a year by using rainwater for toilets, in washing machines, and garden and outdoor use. For more information, Sydney Water has brochures “Buying Rainwater Tank” and “Installing a rainwater tank”, either via the web, or by telephoning them on 13 20 92.
There are key things to remember if you are using your tank for water conservation and stormwater management.

• Tank capacity – the larger the tank, the more rainwater can be captured for use during dry periods. A minimum tank size of 5,000 litres is desirable.

• Water use – its best to use the water in the tank on a regular (daily) basis so there is always storage capacity available in the tank when it rains. By using the tank this way you will maximise the amount of water and money you save and reduce the amount of run-off from your roof to the stormwater system.

Rainwater from your tank is fine for use with garden irrigation systems. However, if you plan to connect your rainwater tank to an irrigation system, you should ensure that you have a filter on your tank. Algae or debris can sometimes be present in rainwater tanks, and a filter will stop blockages occurring in your irrigation sprays.

Connecting your tank to your toilet cistern or your washing machine is a good way to maximise the use of your captured rainwater because unlike garden watering, you will even be using your tank water when it is raining. To supply these appliances from your tank you will need to maintain a minimum operating water level in the tank when there is insufficient rainfall. This will require a “top-up” connection from the Sydney Water supply (just like a toilet cistern) and therefore some plumbing alterations to your home. You will need to consult Sydney Water about this.

If you want to contact Sydney Water regarding any plumbing alterations, their Plumbing Policy, Standards and Regulation area can provide advice.

Sydney Water has a Rainwater Tank Rebate Program offering customers up to $650 to install a rainwater tank. A special Rainwater Tanks in Schools Rebate Program is also available for schools.

Sydney Water is offering a rebate to customers who install a rainwater tank. Rainwater tanks have many advantages – no matter where you live. Even in urban areas where a reticulated service is available, rainwater tanks help conserve valuable drinking water and reduce stormwater run-off.

What is the Rebate for? Sydney Water is offering a rebate to help customers who install a rainwater tank. To qualify for the rebate, the rainwater tank must be both:

• a new tank with a capacity of 2,000 litres or more, and

• purchased on or after 20 October 2002.

How long does the offer last? This offer ends 31 July 2008.

How much is the rebate? The rebate is based on the size of the tank and whether the rainwater is ‘plumbed’ into your toilet or washing machine.

Tank Size	Rebate
2,000 – 3,999 litres	– $150 tank rebate – plus $150 if a toilet and/or washing machine is connected to the rainwater tank
4,000 – 6,999 litres	– $400 tank rebate – plus $150 if a toilet and/or washing machine is connected to the rainwater tank
7,000 + litres	– $500 tank rebate – plus $150 if a toilet and/or washing machine is connected to the rainwater tank

How do you apply? Once your rainwater tank has been installed and any plumbing work completed by your licensed plumber, you are ready to apply for the rebate. You must:
• fill in your part of the Rainwater Tank Rebate Program form;

• get your plumber (if you had plumbing work done) to fill in their section;

• attach your official receipts for the tank and installation;

• send it to:

Sydney Water

Rainwater Tank Rebate Program

PO Box 17, Wollongong NSW 2520

The Terms and Conditions of Sydney Water’s Rainwater Tank Rebate Program are detailed in the Rebate Program brochure. If you have any questions please contact Sydney Water on 13 20 92

When do I get my rebate?

Sydney Water will send out a cheque for your rebate within 60 days of receiving your completed application form and receipts for the tank and installation, subject to verification of your application details.

Lorraine Cairnes

On 10 November 1925, the residents of Castlecrag came together in the basement of the then recently-opened shops (now the Griffin Centre) for what was to be the inaugural meeting of the Castlecrag Progress Association. Edgar William Herbert was elected president and Walter Burley Griffin served on the executive committee.

In celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Castlecrag Progress Association (CPA) we remember its many achievements and those who have contributed to its proud record.

Edgar Herbert was a pioneer of physical education in Australia and, while working with the YMCA in Melbourne, he and his wife had become friends of the Griffins. When Herbert came to Sydney in 1923 to work with G Z Dupain (father of Max) at the Institute of Physical Education, he made his home in Castlecrag. The Herbert family initially lived in the King O’Malley house on the site of the present hospital, then moved to the end of Edinburgh Road. Herbert served as president of the CPA until 1929 and was also an instigator of the Community Circle.

Edgar Deans, who arrived in Castlecrag in 1928 as Secretary to the GSDA, was another key figure in the Progress Association. He served as its president for four years and as secretary for 13 years. He was also secretary and president of the Willoughby Federated Progress Associations and a Mayor of Willoughby.
The early concerns addressed by the Association included the establishment of a Government Infants’ School, better transport access to the city by construction of an arterial road from East Lindfield to North Sydney (now Eastern Valley Way), the upgrading of Edinburgh Road, undergrounding of electricity wires, sewage services for the peninsula and tree planting along Edinburgh Road.

Over the period 1944 to 1964, the Progress Association ‘retired’ in favour of the Castlecrag and East Willoughby Community Advancement Co-operative Society Ltd, which was formed to raise funds for and build a Community Centre. The centre was opened in 1947 and the Castlecrag Community Library opened its doors in 1951. Both facilities continue to serve the needs of our community.

The resurrected Progress Association arranged for the construction of the Griffin Memorial Fountain in 1965 and initiated tree planting at the shopping centre. By the 1970s, traffic issues were of increasing concern in the community and the Association led a successful campaign to stop the construction of the proposed Warringah Freeway along the Northern Escarpment of the peninsula. Traffic calming measures and the need for a right-hand turn signal at Eastern Valley Way were dominant issues in a survey of residents conducted in 1981.

The CPA commenced a community newsletter, Castlecrag News in 1974 and this became The Crag in March 1978. It has maintained a regular production schedule since then.

More recent community events sponsored by the Progress Association, notably the Castlecrag Community Fairs, and its achievements are being chronicled in the history series. The Association celebrated its 80th birthday at a special dinner held at Christine’s Restaurant on 18 November 2005. The Guest of honour, long-term Castlecrag resident Joyce Batterham, entertained the guests with a memorable presentation on the early days in the suburb.

Bob McKillop

NSW Fire Brigades and Willoughby City Council’s Bushfire Crew successfully completed a hazard reduction burn in bushland on the Castlecrag Northern Escarpment near Sunnyside Crescent on 28 and 29 July.

The aims of the burn were to provide protection to surrounding properties in the event of a future wildfire and to maintain diversity of native plant species. Considerable planning and preparation was required by Willoughby City Council’s Bushfire Crew to ensure effective bushfire management. The crew developed a detailed burn plan of the area that included conservation of cultural heritage sites, bushland vegetation and wildlife habitat and property protection.

The burn area was prepared by cutting down standing vegetation and leaving it to season for a year before burning. This helps ensure that a hot burn is achieved to assist the regeneration of plant species. The preparation also reduces available fire fuel over the area and the burn can be conducted safely. This burn preparation technique also minimises air pollution and reduces the amount of water needed to manage the burn.

The crew had to await ideal weather conditions on 28 and 29 July this year to carry out the burn, which was most successful. The burn area will continue to be maintained by Willoughby City Council staff to ensure weeds are controlled. The public can assist the native plant regeneration throughout the burn area by sticking to the paths to enable plants to regenerate and to reduce erosion. A successful pile burn was carried out in Casement Reserve on 13 September also.

Keep a close watch on this area, as the regeneration occurs over the next year. An abundance of beautiful native wildlife flowers is expected to flourish on the site. If you require further information on how to protect your house during the fire season, please contact Willoughby Council on 9777 1000.

Rebecca Hill, WCC

Well-known Castlecrag identity Harold Ruby was named at Willoughby City’s ‘Citizen of the Year’ at the Australia Day ceremony in Chatswood on 26 January. A film and TV producer, director, cinematographer and winner of many international awards, Howard has lived in Castlecrag for 35 years and has been active in community affairs during this period, particularly in his role as President of the Haven Amphitheatre Management Committee. Howard is a past President of the Progress Association and has served on the Committee for many years.

A large contingent of Castlecrag residents was present at the Willoughby City Australia Day Ceremony on the Civic Centre lawns to see the presentation of the award. The citation stated that Howard received the award for:

Long standing and continuous commitment and service to the Castlecrag and Middle Harbour community through various community groups, most notably the Haven Amphitheatre, where he has led the renaissance of the space into a living community theatre.

Matthew McKeighery won the ‘Bushcare Golden Spade’ award presented to him at the annual Volunteer Bushcarer’s Christmas barbecue held in December 2006. Matthew, who is Convenor of the Keep Reserve Bushcare Group, and is also involved in a number of other Castlecrag Community groups, gained the award for his contribution, participation and enthusiasm in the Volunteer Bushcare program.

The previous issue of The Crag highlighted the problem of vandalism, or at best thoughtlessness, in Griffin Reserves caused by those who value harbour view over all else and serves as a vigilance call to all of us who treasure Castlecrag’s bushland heritage.

Restoration of The Buttress Reserve has been achieved through careful consultation and planning, hard work and financial contributions of adjoining residents working with Council’s bush regenerator, Pamela Batters – a lovely Yorkshire lass.

Over the past five years Pamela’s skill and sheer, hard physical work has transformed what was essentially a devastated, bamboo-infested wasteland into natural bushland complete with a dry, rock-lined creek that solves adjoining neighbours water run-off problems. Before planting was commenced all immediate neighbours were consulted extensively on the scale and form of flora so that views would not be impeded. Species were limited to those that would not exceed 6 metres and it was agreed that self-sown “mongrel” eucalypts would be removed if they threatened views and used for mulch.

Careful selection and placement of small trees and shrubs, generally no more than 2-3 metres in height, and their nurturing from tube stage by Pamela in a labour of love has created a place of natural beauty complemented by some quite remarkable rock formations. Her inspirational work has had other unforeseen spin-offs in the immediate community, enthusing adjoining neighbours to clear and plant their gardens empathetically with native flora.

Wanton destruction of her caring, considered work was devastating and almost destroyed Pamela’s motivation to continue, but I am pleased to report that she was back on the job in The Buttress Reserve this week, removing invading weeds and continuing her good work for the benefit of our community. We are indeed fortunate to have such a motivated person as Pamela working for us, and she deserves our support and vigilance in nurturing and protecting Castlecrag’s very special and unique bushland heritage.

John Steel

Willoughby Municipal Council celebrated its centenary in 1965 and in Castlecrag we decided to mark that occasion by erecting a memorial to the creator of our suburb, Walter Burley Griffin. A proposal was put forward by the Castlecrag Community Centre Committee and Bim Hilder was asked to design an appropriate sculpture. It was thought that it would be best placed on the island which used to exist at the corner of The Postern and Edinburgh Road but on the recommendation of Edmond Harvey, a most talented local artist, the island at the corner of The Sortie Port and Edinburgh Road was substituted. So, Bim got on with his creation of a magnificent water sculpture made of copper and based on a tetrahedral motif and the community set about raising money to fund the enterprise. Which it did, in no time at all, and by over four hundred pounds!

The fountain was unveiled by the Mayor, Alderman Laurie McGinty on Centenary Day, 23 October 1965 to the great pleasure of the many residents who attended. He planted a tree nearby to further record the occasion, trees were planted at the shopping centre, some Griffin houses were opened for inspection and a demonstration of the design and construction of Knitlock tiles was held in the school grounds. Time has passed and the pumping, drainage and electrical systems of the fountain are in serious need of upgrading. The fountain is classified as a heritage item and Council, despite attempts to get the fountain operational again, has decided that the best way to keep it functioning into the future is to completely upgrade its hydraulic and electronic items with current technology. It has estimated the cost of restoration to be in the vicinity of $50,000. Funds to do this are not available in Council’s current annual budget but it is giving some thought to seeking funding from heritage bodies. It would be wonderful if the Castlecrag community were again to come together to assist in the financing of the fountain’s restoration. The fountain is a remarkable and significant item in our suburb and its preservation is important for the man it honours and for the generations to come.

James Smallhorn, from Willoughby City Council’s Open Space Branch, has prepared a Walter Burley Griffin Memorial Fountain Heritage Statement and will be the guest speaker at our general meeting on 25 August. He will talk about the fountain and answer question’s on its history and the re-financing of its restoration. We look forward to meeting you.

Castlecrag Private Hospital is establishing a display of old photographs interpreting the history of the hospital. It is a colourful history, with the origins of the hospital going back to 1927 when Dr Edward William Rivett purchased the Walter Burley Griffin-designed ‘King O’Malley House’ on the corner of Edinburgh Road and Sortie Port. This had been constructed on Lot 96 of the original Griffin subdivision of Castlecrag in 1922-23 and was financed by King O’Malley, the flamboyant Minister for Home Affairs in the Federal Government at the time the international design competition for the Australian Federal Capital was held. It was O’Malley who resolved the controversy over the design for Canberra by endorsing the majority view of the selection committee and approving the plan of fellow-American Walter Burley Griffin. O’Malley became a strong supporter of Griffin in the subsequent upheaval over the implementation of his plan, and he continued this support to the Castlecrag project.

The O’Malley house was leased by Edgar Herbert, a friend of the Griffins and a pioneer in physical education who came to Sydney from Melbourne to work with GZ Dupain at his Institute of Physical Education. Herbert was the foundation President of the Castlecrag Progress Association and his family lived in the O’Malley House until 1927. The house was a small stone cottage, very similar to the Cheong House at 14 The Parapet. Herbert’s daughter Erwin remembers that the picture window in the living room offered a commanding view of Middle Harbour and The Spit. It was ‘a typical Griffin house with polished floors and a blue and white Chinese rug in the living room’.

Dr Edward Rivett had graduated in medicine from Sydney University in 1920 and became Resident Medical Officer at Sydney Hospital and The Women’s Hospital that year. Rivett practised in general surgery and obstetrics. Following his purchase of the O’Malley House in 1927, it was converted into a small five-bed hospital. Griffin’s office designed significant extensions to the house to provide a two-storey 20-bed hospital, which Rivett called Cabarisha after a legendary Indian healer. Rivett’s vision was to provide a hospital that was more a home than an institution, in which people could be nursed back to health in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The grounds were laid out with lawns, gardens, ponds, fountains and a tennis court – which was used by staff and local residents.

Further extensions to designs by Eric Nicolls were made to the hospital, notably a wing along Sortie Port and a nurses’ home in The Battlement in the 1930s, and an obstetrics wing along Edinburgh Road after the War. It remained very much a family affair, with Edward’s sister, Dr Amy Christine Rivett, assisting at Cabarisha for some considerable time from her practice in Northbridge. His sons Ronald and Howard also worked there as medical practitioners. The topsy-like growth of the facility resulted in a rambling geography, however, leading to a high staff-to-patient ratio. This, together with the need for new equipment and techniques to keep abreast of medical developments, resulted in financial losses by the 1960s.

To the older residents of Castlecrag the hospital was and always will be Cabarisha. Dr Rivett was a very popular doctor and the hospital was a thriving business, with many of his patients coming from the local community. The post-war baby boom made heavy demands on the hospital’s obstetrics facilities, so the wing along Edinburgh Road was added, with Dr Rivett undertaking some of the construction himself.
Many of Castlecrag’s post-war babies were born at Cabarisha, with the two-weeks of post-natal care provided there enabling mothers to return home fully able to meets life’s demands. Dr Rivett is remembered with affection for the professional standards of care he brought to his practice and for a hospital that was at one with the beauty of its natural setting.

Following the death of Edward Rivett and Christine Rivett in 1962, Ronald and Howard continued the business, changing the name to the Castlecrag Private Hospital. In 1970 they reluctantly decided to sell to a company with adequate capital for further development of the facilities. This did not eventuate and the hospital was onsold. The present remodelled building was opened on 5 January 1986. The architect, Michael Cavanagh, endeavoured to preserve the character of the former hospital, with the front façade being retained and the building’s past character reflected in the new Griffin-like mouldings in the other facades.

Bob McKillop and Elizabeth Lander