House and garden, “Dulmar”
House and garden, “Dulmar”59 Ada StreetLot 32, Section F, DP 2150No 59 Ada Street is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.It has the name ‘Dulmar’.Propeller 12 March 1936, p5, “Lost, Magpie, walks with a limp. Finder please return to 59 Ada Street, Oatley.”It was the home of Kogarah Alderman Guy Edwin Moore, who likely placed the advert.It may have been built by Edgar Williams for his daughter Dulcie (hence the Dul in Dulmar).
Oatley Pleasure Grounds
Oatley Pleasure Grounds16 and 16A Annette StreetLot 20, DP 921615; Lots 21, 21A and 22, Section 56, DP 4442; Lot 452, DP 752056; Lots 1–4, DP 20130; Lots 251 and 252, DP 208422From 1896, the Oatley Pleasure Grounds were run by Harry Linmark (d1931), whose boat-hire business grew to include pleasure-cruising, a wine-bar, and even a small zoo. It was a popular venue for picnics and parties, and a band played on Sundays.Linmark later sold the Pleasure Grounds to Frederick Hartland. Kogarah Council acquired the property from the Hartland family in the 1930s,[1] and demolished the remaining structures. A shark net was installed circa 1935.Oatley Motor Boat Club once operated from this location. Oatley Sea Scouts have used the site from 1941 onwards, later building their hall and boat storage.See Linmark’s Pleasure Grounds.A refurbishment by Kogarah Council in 2002 improved stormwater flows in order to restore the creek. Exotic plants were replaced by more than 2,000 native plants.[2] Half the $118,000 cost was paid by the National Heritage Trust.Wildlife found in the reserve includes the white striped mastiff bat and the brush-tail possum.[1] Circa 1934?[2] St George Leader 19 November 2002, p18, which gives the 1934 date.
House and garden
House and garden & House and garden23 Annette Street & 25 Annette StreetLot 29, Section 42, DP 4442 & Lot 30, Section 42, DP 4442Nos 23-25 Annette Street and no 92 Rosa Street, Oatley are locally significant as they as a group reflect large residential developments close to the water.See Tropman and Tropman, Kogarah Heritage Study, July 1994, Group 2 Ref Item 85.Earnshaw states that the houses were built for the Chiswell brothers, furniture makers. Lot 30 of section 42 of the Oatley estate became no 25, and was the home of Lilian and Charles Chiswell. Lot 29 of section 42 was bought by James Chsiwell. Ernest Chiswell bought Lot 5 of section 42 at the rear of his brothers’ property, and this became no 92 Rosa Street. The houses were built in 1928 and 1929.[1]They are listed as two separate Heritage Items in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and were previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Earnshaw, Beverley, Houses and Heritage p152-153.
Oatley Park and Baths
Oatley Park and Baths1 Dame Mary Gilmour RoadLot 13, DP 752056; Lot 542, DP 727277In August 1928, Hurstville Council Engineer J D Webster furnished a report to Council detailing proposals for an ‘Oatley Park Improvement Scheme’. Having inspected the park in the company of Hurstville Oval curator, L Dunbar, Mr Webster advanced a number of measures seeking to improve ‘this natural asset’ in the belief that the park would be likely to attract new residents to the area.[1]Among the recommendations included in Mr Webster’s report were proposals for the construction of a one-way drive through the park, picnic grounds and car parking facilities, installation of ornamental gates at the park’s entrance, development of walking tracks to facilitate access to a number of natural look-outs, improving pedestrian access between the pier and dressing sheds at the water line and the construction of a ‘reinforced concrete Beach House’ including a caretaker’s residence, dressing sheds, refreshment shop and ‘make use of roof for seating accommodation etc.’ Mr Webster believe the beach house ‘would form a great attraction and would be an asset for all time’.[2]Council resolved to adopt the Engineer’s report embracing the improvement scheme, specifying that certain elements of the proposal be undertaken ‘as early as possible’. Council determined that the construction of Oatley Park Road from Gungah Bay Road and a series of accompanying improvements, the clearing of areas for parking and picnic grounds, the establishment of secondary paths providing access to the river and the construction of a stone wall at the existing pier so as to improve pedestrian access to the shoreline at high tide were to be included in the initial works at the park.[3]Reports emerged in the spring of 1930 detailing the progress of the works being undertaken on behalf of Hurstville Council at Oatley Park. Approximately £3000 was said to be being spent in a ‘beautification scheme and roadways’ designed to follow the natural curvature of the Georges River shoreline and offering a circuitous thoroughfare through the park. Two look-outs were being constructed and the development in the vicinity of the ‘bathing’ area included an access road, car parking areas, picnic grounds and associated facilities and garden beds.[4]The ‘newly completed’ Park Road and a Casualty Room of the St George-Sutherland Shire Ambulance at Oatley Park were each officially opened at a ceremony in January 1931. Hurstville Council was reported to have had the road constructed ‘out of the £100 000 loan fund’. A report on the proceedings noted the joint efforts of Mortdale Parents and Citizens’ Association and Hurstville Council in the establishment of the baths at Sandy Beach and anticipated the ‘rugged rock frontage’ in the vicinity of the baths would be ‘replaced with a fine promenade’. [5]According to Mr L K Stevens in an article published in a newsletter of the Hurstville Historical Society in June 1975, the road within the park was constructed with the approval of the Department of Public Works, under the supervision of the department’s engineers and gangers.[6] Mr Stevens claims these works were undertaken during the Depression era period of 1929-1932, using the labour of the unemployed at the time.[7] Mr Stevens also states that Mr Jim Lawrence, a ganger and stonemason employed on the road construction project, undertook the construction of the ‘kiosk and castellated lookout’ at this time.[8]Correspondence to Hurstville Council from the Oatley West Progress Association tabled at Council meeting in January 1931 suggested the construction of a ‘shelter shed’ at Oatley Park on land ‘at the rear of the ladies’ dressing sheds’. The association recommended the structure should incorporate a shelter shed and shop.[9] The correspondence of Mr W L Packenham tabled at the same meeting, requested consideration for the inclusion of a ‘small room’ in the shed for Mr Packenham to use as a ‘refreshment room’. Council resolved to refer the matter to ‘the Engineer and Inspector for report’. [10]The subsequent report prepared by Council Engineer J D Webster and Health Inspector H Doig, expressed a difficulty in determining the requisite size of the proposed shelter shed, however, a structure of 40 feet by 25 feet, anticipated to seat approximately 100 people was recommended.[11] The report considered three types of structure, namely one of brick piers with wooden roof trusses and iron roof, a similar building with steel roof trusses and iron roof, and a stone structure ‘built from the sandstone available on the ground’ with a ‘sloping galvanised iron roof on steel rails’ at an estimated overall cost of £350. [12] The report concluded the latter structure would provide the best shelter from ‘rain and storms’ and would offer the best resistance to fire. Messrs Webster and Doig anticipated the stone structure would feature a parapet which would partially conceal the roof and the three sides of the building facing the river would provide water views through ‘a series of open arches’.[13] The report contended that the stone structure would ‘have a more unique appearance’ among shelter sheds.[14] Council subsequently resolved to proceed with the construction of the stone shed and voted to make the necessary funds available to do so.[15]Hurstville Council resolved to apply to the Public Works Department to undertake the construction of a stone pavilion at Sandy Beach Park at a Council meeting in January 1935.[16] Council was to provide the ‘material’ for the structure which was to be used by cricketers and the public, with provision to be made for the storage of sports equipment.[17]In July 1935, Council resolved to write to the Public Works Department ‘enquiring when it proposes completing the erection of the shelter shed at Oatley Park’.[18] A published report of a Hurstville Council meeting claimed the Public Works Department ‘recently’ commenced the construction of the shelter shed at Oatley Park, which at that point was incomplete.[19] Hurstville Council Alderman Mallard was cited in the report as claiming the unfinished structure ‘resembled an old English ruined castle’.[20]Hurstville Council was subsequently informed by way of correspondence from the Public Works Department that ‘sums cannot be made available by the Department for the completion of the Shelter Shed at Oatley Park’.[21]Council responded by resolving to obtain an estimate from the Engineer as to the cost of completion.[22] A report of proceedings at this meeting claimed Alderman Mallard stated that the original agreement specified Council would complete the construction of the shed.[23] The report also claimed Engineer Webster stated the walls of the structure had been constructed so as to allow the installation of a flat, reinforced concrete roof which could be used as a look-out.[24] The cost of this type of roof was said to be approximately £300.[25]Council’s subsequent response to the Engineer’s report on the proposed roof for the shelter shed was a resolution to proceed with the flat, reinforced concrete roof at an estimated cost of £350.[26] The Engineer’s report had considered the durability of the iron roof which was expected to exceed the cost of a tile alternative and would require ongoing painting maintenance.[27] The tile roof, considered by Engineer Webster to ‘have a better appearance’ than that of iron, was believed to be susceptible to the attacks of vandals.[28] The report concluded that the reinforced concrete roof would be ‘permanent, indestructible’, ‘require no maintenance’ and complement the ‘artistic scheme’ of the park.[29]A media report detailing Council’s decision claimed the ‘architectural appearance’ of the structure would be ‘spoilt’ if an iron or tile roof were constructed, and the flat roof offered the prospect of providing a ‘look-out over Oatley Park’.[30]Hurstville Council purchased a quantity of cement in December 1935, of which 193 bags costing £37/9/3- were allocated to ‘erect shed Oatley Park’.[31] Sheets of BRC reinforcements were also purchased at a cost of £57/4/-.[1] Minutes, Volume 1928, Engineer’s Report, Hurstville Council Meeting, 15 August 1928.[2] Ibid.[3] Minutes, Volume 1928, ‘Oatley Park Improvement Scheme’, Hurstville Council Meeting, 15 August 1928.[4] Propeller, 17 October 1930, p.4.[5] Propeller, 3 January 1931, p.6.[6] L K Stevens, Oatley Park, Hurstville Historical Newsletter, Vol.1, No.82, June 1975.[7] Ibid.[8] Ibid.[9] Minutes, Volume 1931, minute 160-1, correspondence, Hurstville Council Meeting, 29 January 1931.[10] Ibid.[11] Minutes, Volume 1931, minute 408, Engineer’s Report, Hurstville Council Meeting, 26 March 1931.[12] Ibid.[13] Ibid.[14] Ibid.[15] Minutes, Volume 1931, minute 447, Hurstville Council Meeting 26 March 1931.[16] Propeller, 17 January 1935, p.3.[17] Ibid.[18] Minutes, Volume 1935, ‘Completion of Shelter Shed-Oatley Park’, Hurstville Council Meeting, 25 July 1935.[19] Propeller, 1August 1935, p. 3.[20] Ibid.[21] Minutes, Volume 1935, ‘Erection of Shelter Shed-Oatley Park’, Hurstville Council Meeting, 5 September 1935.[22] Ibid.[23] Propeller, 12 September 1935, p.3.[24] Ibid.[25] Ibid.[26] Minutes, Volume 1935, ‘Reports, Oatley Park Shelter Shed’, Hurstville Council Meeting, 3 October 1935.[27] Ibid.[28] Ibid.[29] Ibid.[30] Propeller, 10 October 1935, p.8.[31] Hurstville Council, Voucher Book 1936, voucher nos 1936-21, 1936-30.
Oatley Memorial Clock
Oatley Memorial ClockOn traffic island in Frederick Street, west of intersection with Oatley AvenueThe clock tower in the middle of Frederick Street, Oatley arose from a community wish to commemorate the first land grant holder in the Oatley area, James Oatley. He was a clockmaker, among whose works was the chiming clock in the Hyde Park Barracks in Sydney.The town clock was designed by architect Clive Stevens in 1982-83. He also designed the Uniting Church in Oatley. A sandstone memorial stone states: “James Oatley: Colonial Clockmaker 1769-1839”. The clock faces allude to Oatley’s career as a clockmaker; the cast lace panel to the chimes outlet represents the decorative arts of the 19th century; and the top of the tower angles away to represent the future.The brickwork of the tower was carried out by students from Miller Technical College, as was the copper sheathed roof. The electrical wiring was by student from Gymea Technical College. The clock mechanism was by Simplex International. The clock cost $15,000 to build, and is maintained with interest from a trust fund.The clock was dedicated on 29 October 1983 by Robert Oatley, a descendant of James Oatley.See Tropman and Tropman, Kogarah Heritage Study, July 1994, Group 2 Ref Item 89.The structure is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.
Como Railway Bridge
Como Railway BridgeGeorges RiverA lattice-girder bridge was constructed from Oatley to Como across the Georges River. The bridge, known as a gauntlette bridge, was constructed in 1885 for the Illawarra Railway, and was a major factor in opening up the St George and Sutherland areas to urban development. On completion, the Sydney Morning Herald thought it “one of the most beautiful railway bridges in the world.”[1] It was opened on 25 December 1885.Superstructure was made by Cochrane and Co of Middlesbrough, England, and the cast-iron cylinders were by the Stockton Forge Company.The bridge was officially tested on 19 January 1886.[2] Engineer-in-chief was Mr John Whitton; he had advised a double-track bridge, but a single-track bridge eventuated, which was inadequate for the volume of traffic. In January 1966 Donovan H Lee & Partners were appointed to design a new Como bridge.[3]In 1972 it was replaced by a new double-track concrete railway bridge.[4] It was constructed by John Holland Construction P/L, and cost $3.4 million. The new bridge was opened by Mr Morris, Minister for Transport, on 27 November 1972.[5] He unveiled two plaques commemorating the opening. One plaque commemorated the official opening date, the other was dedicated to the memory of the late D D Cross, member for Georges River, who had campaigned for the building of the replacement bridge.There was a derailment on the bridge on 29 January 1985, when the last carriage of a northbound train, carrying about 100 people, left the rails on the Sutherland side of the bridge.[6]In December 1985 the old bridge was reopened as a cycleway/walkway, in a Federal project with Kogarah and Sutherland Councils. The cycleway was reopened in March 1987 following restoration work on the bridge.[7]See St George Leader 31 January 1985 for photos of a derailment on the bridge which might have been much worse.The bridge is currently a bicycle track and walkway linking Oatley with Como, and has fine views of the Georges River. Access is from Myra Place, Oatley, running to Cremona Road, Como.[1] Sydney Morning Herald 25 December 1885, p6.[2] Evening News 20 January 1886, p3.[3] St George Call 27 January 1966.[4] Propeller 29 November 1972 has photos.[5] St George Leader 29 November 1972 has a photo of Mr Morris cutting the ribbon.[6] St George Leader 14 March 2018 p28.[7] St George Leader 26 March 1987, p3.
Oatley Railway Station
Oatley Railway StationIllawarra rail lineLots 5 and 11 DP 803349; Lot 14, DP 839742Nestled on the Illawarra line south of Hurstville, Oatley Railway Station has been a cornerstone of local development and cultural heritage since its opening in 1885. [1] Oatley was then a sparsely populated area. However, the opening of Judd’s Hurstville Brick Works in 1884, just a year before the station, created a demand for transport infrastructure to support industry and workers. This strategic decision laid the foundation for Oatley’s growth. Originally known as Oatley’s Grant platform, the station was renamed simply Oatley in 1890, marking the beginning of its pivotal role in shaping the suburb. [2]The first station building, a modest weatherboard structure costing £265, was constructed in September 1890. Over time, the station evolved alongside the community: a stationmaster’s residence (known as St. Emlo) was added in 1891, and in 1905, the line was relocated, prompting the reassembly of the station on a new island platform. This move spurred Oatley’s transformation from bushland to a thriving suburb.Darcy Fletcher was brought up at a house right at the level-crossing gates in the 1890s. He recollected:[3]“All the trains were steam driven and passed about twenty yards from our house. The passenger trains of four carriages of the old corridor type were drawn by engines with only six wheels. Baldwin-type engines drew the goods trains and later larger ones were used. Sometimes, especially in the cold weather, goods and coal trains which were drawn up at the local signal, started with a series of jerks when they got the all-clear and, on the steep grade, I have seen the couplings snap. Half of the train would go forward while the other half would start to run back, only to be stopped by the guard in the van at the rear.When the deviation of the railway line was being completed, I saw the last train to go through on the old line. This was the funeral-train, which went through at 3.30pm and at Sutherland it ran on a short branch line right into the cemetery. The necessary joins in the line were made while it was away and when it returned at 4.30pm it was the first to run on the new line.”Technological progress soon followed. Automatic signalling arrived in 1918 and 1926, and the Illawarra line between Central and Oatley became the first section in NSW to be electrified in the State and was the site for the initial electrified train testing..The station is a rare example of a once common standard building design known as the ‘Initial Island Platform Design’. Consisting of a single storey building of timber construction in the Federation Queen Anne style-influenced weatherboard platform building. However, upgrading works in 1991-93 remodelled the original floor plan and removed much of the original internal fabric. The 1905 levers and early 20th century signal room and other equipment remain intact.[4]William James Elliott was appointed station master at Oatley Railway Station in 1927. His son recalled “Dad never used his issue whistle to allow trains to depart. I don’t know how he learned to whistle but his piercing whistle was known to all the guards on the Illawarra line. The station master’s hours were from about 6 am to 2 pm, and for many years he rode down to the station from 66 Letitia Street on his 1916 ASJS motorbike and sidecar… he was due to retire at the end of WWII but due to shortage of staff was not allowed to retire until the early 1950s.”[5]Beryl Godfrey recalled: “I have memories of the gas lamplighter on Oatley Station. A fire was lit in the grate on cold nights in the waiting room as trains were infrequent.”[6]
Oatley Masonic Lodge
Oatley Masonic Lodge11A Letitia StreetLot A, DP 325569; Lot 20, DP 1043366The Oatley Masonic Hall was erected in 1922 and dedicated on 5 August 1922. It is at 11a Letitia Street, Oatley. See Kendall, G W The Oatley Masonic Hall – paper presented at a meeting of the Oatley Heritage Group 23 May 1996.[1] It was the meeting place for Lodge Oatley No 381. The first Lodge Master was Richard Jones, installed on 30 May 1921. The overseer of the building of the hall was William Arps.It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Online at http://www.oatleyhistory.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ohg199605-meeting-places.pdf Accessed 29 June 2020.
House and garden
House and garden56 Letitia StreetLot C, DP 389898No 56 Letitia Street, Oatley, was listed under the NSW Heritage Act on the State Heritage Register. It was listed in the 1993 Kogarah Heritage Study. It is described as ‘a single-storey residence circa 1890, possibly formerly a schoolmaster’s residence.’It stood on one of the lots of Section D of the Oatley Township subdivision, offered for sale on 19 October 1889 – possibly Section D, Lot 30, shown as an undeveloped lot in the Mitchell Library copy of the subdivision plan (N13/23).There were three householders in that part of the street in the 1913 Sands’ Directory:Joseph W Bayley, customs officer; John Schofield, carpenter; Harold Holgate, printer. Holgate’s house was named ‘Kaiwarra’.It is not clear which of these householders inhabited no 56.The owner in the 1938 Rates Book was given as Harold A Judd. It was on Lot 1 pt 17 of the Oatley Estate.In 1948 Mr F A Butler was the householder.[1]It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Sydney Morning Herald 4 December 1948, p34.
Semi-detached dwellings and garden, “Glenbrook”
Semi-detached dwellings and garden, “Glenbrook”90–92 Letitia StreetLots 1 and 2, DP 526437Glenbrook, no 92 Letitia Street, Oatley, was listed under the NSW Heritage Act on the State Heritage Register. It was listed in the 1993 Kogarah Heritage Study. It represents a good example of a large Federation bungalow semi-detached residence. It fronts Charles Street Reserve.Earnshaw states that it was built in 1912 for Albert Ashbury, and gives details of later owners.[1] From 1968 it was restored by owners Keith and Patricia Johnson, following years of a succession of rentals.[1] Earnshaw, Beverley, Houses and Heritage, p150-151.
Interwar bungalow and setting, including fence base
Interwar bungalow and setting, including fence base36 Lloyd StreetLot 58, DP 9927No 36 Lloyd Street, Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.
George Fincham Pipe Organ
George Fincham Pipe Organ1 Myall StreetLot 123, DP 801645The Christadelphian congregation at 1 Myall Street, Mortdale, has a pipe organ made by George Fincham in 1905. Fincham was an early Australian maker of pipe organs. This example was made for St John’s Presbyterian Church, Wahroonga, and relocated to the Hurstville Christadelphian Church in 1961. It was relocated to its present home between 1986 and 1992.[1]Restoration work was undertaken on it in 2009 by Peter Jewkes and company, funded by the Heritage Branch of the NSW Department of Planning.It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Website www.livingtruth.info accessed 25 July 2018.
Interwar bungalow “Bangala” and setting, including brick fence and frangipanni
Interwar bungalow “Bangala” and setting, including brick fence and frangipanni7 Myall StreetLot 24, Section 15, DP 4513Bangala, no 7 Myall Street, Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.
Oatley Memorial Gardens
Oatley Memorial Gardens2B and 2C Oatley AvenueLots 1–26, DP 16690; Lot 1, DP 1170690Oatley Memorial Park and Gardens in Oatley Avenue are locally significant as they represent examples of the Federation planning and reflect the development of the area with numerous overlays of plantings, including Eucalyptus, Ficus, Confertus, Populus and other species. There are specimen plantings of Araucaria, Canna, Abelia, Agapanthus, Rose, Azalea, Spirea and Prunus.The inscription on the War Memorial reads: “This memorial was dedicated on 31st March, 1962 by the Reverend H.C. Lundy, in memory of all servicemen and women serving their country. Originally sited at the public school, Letitia St. Oatley, the memorial was moved to its present position by the Oatley Sub-Branch R.S.S & A.I.L.A.”Kogarah Council prepared the Oatley Memorial Gardens Reserve Draft Plan of Management in 2011.The site was once the location of the original train line running from Oatley Avenue to Oatley Parade, up to 1905, when the track was realigned.In 1941, Kogarah Council Engineer, Bert Brewer, drew up plans for Oatley Memorial Gardens.In 1983, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of James Oatley receiving his land grant, fund raising led to the construction of the Oatley Clock in Frederick Street.Premises at the park are used by 1st Oatley Scouts and Oatley Guides.GRLS23-376 shows the toilet block in 1991.In 2000 a plaque was placed identifying the site of the original railway station.In 2009 the War Memorial was re-dedicated.The Oatley Memorial Park playground was officially opened on 20 July 2010 by Daryl Melham MP for Banks, and Cr Nicholas Varvaris, Mayor of Kogarah.
Oatley Point Reserve
Oatley Point Reserve1 and 1A Phipps StreetLots 22, 25 and 25A, Section 37, DP 4868; Lots 22A, 23, 23A, 24 and 24A, DP 4868; Lot 7050, DP 1027173Oatley Point Reserve was listed in the 1993 Kogarah Heritage Study. It is locally significant for its aesthetic and social values. It is accessed from Algernon Street.The area of the reserve in 1931 was 3 acres and 30 perches, with a further 2 acres 1 rood 20 perches purchased.[1]The geographical name ‘Oatley Point Reserve’ was assigned by the Geographical Names Board in November 1973.[2]A feature of the reserve was the little bridge at Oatley Point. This appears to have been removed since 1991.[1] Kogarah Council correspondence files 1931/1660.[2] Government Gazette of NSW 23 November 1973, p5052.
Tudor-Style House
Tudor Style House92 Rosa StreetLot 5, Section 42, DP 4442No. 92 Rosa Street, Oatley, is a fine and intact example of an inter-war Old English Tudor-style residence, built circa 1930. Its architectural character is defined by steeply pitched gables, textured brickwork, and decorative timber elements typical of the Tudor Revival style popular in suburban Australia during the inter-war period. The sandstone block front fence, possibly reconstructed, adds to the property’s period charm and streetscape appeal. The house is located within the Oatley Township subdivision, established in 1888, and forms part of a group of significant residential developments near the water, alongside Nos. 23–25 Annette Street. Together, these homes reflect the expansion of Oatley as a desirable residential area in the early 20th century. Historian Beverley Earnshaw notes that the houses were built for the Chiswell brothers, prominent furniture makers.[1] Lot 30 of Section 42, which became No. 25 Annette Street, was the home of Lilian and Charles Chiswell. Lot 29, now No. 23 Annette Street, was purchased by James Chiswell. Lot 5, at the rear of his brothers’ properties, was bought by Ernest Chiswell, and became No. 92 Rosa Street. The houses were constructed in 1928 and 1929, reflecting the prosperity and domestic ideals of the time. By the 1938 rates book, the owner of No. 92 was listed as George Kendall. No. 92 Rosa Street is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021, and was previously listed in the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012, recognising its architectural and historical significance. References: [1] Earnshaw, Beverley, Houses and Heritage, pp. 152–153. See Tropman and Tropman, Kogarah Heritage Study, July 1994, Group 2 Ref Item 83 and 85.
House and garden
House and garden9 Russell StreetLot B, DP 367555No 9 Russell Street is locally significant as it represents a good example of a Spanish Mission detached residence. It has the original sandstone block front fence. Nos 1 & 3, 7 and 9 Russell Street are significant as a group of Spanish Mission residences.See Tropman and Tropman, Kogarah Heritage Study, July 1994, Group 3 Ref Item 140.No 9 Russell Street was featured in The Contractor, the journal of the Sydney County Council, 1938, p6-7 in an article titled ‘From the Land of the Conquistadors’.The owner’s name in the 1938 rates book was given as Mrs Eileen Peir.Construction of the home was carried out by H Davies of Rockdale; no architect’s name is given.It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.
House and garden
House and garden10 Russell StreetLot 2, DP 231023No 10 Russell Street was listed in the 1993 Kogarah Heritage Study. It represents a good example of a grand Federation development, from circa 1900, on a large waterfront block. It was listed on Kogarah LEP as of regional significance.Earnshaw states that reputedly ‘Holtcraig’ was the first substantial house built on Oatley Bay. It was built circa 1900 for Edgar Nicholas Williams, an ironmonger, on a cliff above Oatley Bay baths.[1] He died in 1955. The property was bought in 1958 by the Williams family. Edgar Williams stood successfully for West Ward in 1908 and served on Kogarah Council until 1913.It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Earnshaw, Beverley, Houses and Heritage, p154.
Federation house “Lindaville” and setting
Federation house “Lindaville” and setting11 Waratah StreetLot 4, DP 319565This cottage is in sound condition and features some typical details. These include iron roof with bullnosed verandah, decorative brickwork to chimney, timber barge and sunhood detailing. The building was altered pre-1983 with aluminium windows which were not in keeping with the character of the house.See A Photographic Guide to Architecturally and Historically Significant Buildings in the Municipality of Hurstville, 1983, item no 82.Lindaville, no 11 Waratah Street, Oatley, was listed on the 2012 Hurstville LEP as of local significance.
Federation house “Colwyn” and setting
Federation house “Colwyn” and setting30 Waratah StreetLot 7, Section 8, DP 2297No 30 Waratah Street, Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.It has the name ‘Colwyn’.
Rendered Victorian house “Merlewood” and setting
No 34 Waratah Street, Oatley was advertised for sale in November 2019 through PRD Nationwide as a circa 1888 Victorian Italianate home, 4/5 bedrooms, known as ‘Merlewood’.[1]‘Merlewood’ was the home of the Fletcher family from the 1890s onwards. William Reid Fletcher died there in 1893[2]; John Fletcher, signwriter was listed in the 1902 Sands’ Directory; Robert Fletcher, ironmonger, was listed there in the 1913 Electoral Roll and 1913 Sands’ Directory.The New Oatley Township subdivision, which was offered for sale on 13 December 1890,[3] showed a dwelling on Section 8, Lot 5, suggesting that the house likely predates 1890.It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.[1] Domain feature in St George Leader 13 November 2019, p37.[2] Sydney Morning Herald 18 December 1893, p1.[3] Mitchell Library subdivision plans N 13/12, N 13/13.
Federation house “Oxford” and setting around original house
Federation house “Oxford” and setting around original house8–10 Woronora ParadeSP 79366Oxford, No 8-10 is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.
Federation house “Cambridge” and setting
Federation house “Cambridge” and setting22 Woronora ParadeLot B, DP 368274Cambridge, no 22 Woronora Parade, Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.
Pair of semi-detached Federation cottages and settings
Pair of semi-detached Federation cottages and settings36–38 Woronora ParadeLots A and B, DP 378215No 36-38 Woronora Parade, Oatley, a pair of Federation semis, are listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and were previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.
Federation house “Caprera” and setting
Federation house “Caprera” and setting37 Woronora ParadeLot 100, DP 1250001No 37 Woronora Parade is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.It has the name ‘Caprera’.
Weatherboard Federation house “Aigburth” / “Carthona” and setting
Weatherboard Federation house “Aigburth” / “Carthona” and setting46 Woronora ParadeLot 8, Section 13, DP 2297No 46 Woronora Parade, Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.It is a weatherboard Federation house referred to as ‘Aigburth’ or ‘Carthona’.
Federation house “Yengarie” and setting
Federation house “Yengarie” and setting51 Woronora ParadeLot 11, Section 9, DP 2297No 51 Woronora Parade, Oatley is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012.It is a Federation house with the name ‘Yengarie’.It is Lot 11 Section 9 DP 2297.The house was offered for sale in May 2023 as a five bedroom property, dated to circa 1917.[1][1] St George Leader 3 May 2023, p19, 21.
Federation house “Truro” and setting
Federation house “Truro” and setting84 Woronora ParadeLot 2, Section 12, DP 2297No 84 Woronora Parade (west side), Oatley, is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Hurstville Local Environmental Plan 2012. The 2012 Plan referred to it mistakenly as ‘Yengarie’.In the 1930s it was the home of the Macgregor family, who had previously been graziers at Mogandale, near Condobolin.‘Truro’, between no 78, ‘Ennerdale’, and the junction with Mulga Road, was listed in the 1928 Sands’ Directory.
House and garden
House and garden42 Wyong StreetLot 1, DP 1146269No 42 Wyong Street, Oatley, was listed in the 1993 Kogarah Heritage Study. It is referred to as the Derwent House. It was constructed circa 1880 and is of weatherboard construction.Andrew Derwent, an oyster farmer, described as “a very old resident of the district”, died at his home in 1940, aged 89.[1]It is listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Georges River Local Environmental Plan 2021 and was previously listed as a Heritage Item in Schedule 5 of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012. The ‘Derwent and Drake’ oyster farm at no 44 Wyong Street is also listed.[1] Propeller 26 December 1940, p4.
Derwent and Drake Oyster Farm
Derwent and Drake Oyster Farm44 Wyong Street and Neverfail BayLot 1, DP 803348In 2016, Kogarah City Council began to install ten plaques which mark the first round of places of significance in the Kogarah local government area (LGA). In the first year, the requirements of the project were that the selected sites showcase a range of types of significance (infrastructure, medicine, culture, the arts, industry and so on), and that they be installed in places easily accessible to the public. As the project continued, Council put in place a nominations process for sites of significance to be considered for commemorative plaques in future years, shaped by considerations of significance, diversity, and historical integrity.The 2016 plaques were launched on Tuesday 15 March with the unveiling of the first plaque. These plaques, numbered 1-10, commemorate sites in the Kogarah Town Centre and along the Georges River.10. Drake’s Oyster Barges (1955 – 1996)The oyster industry was a significant part of the local riparian produce, since well before white settlement. Large middens of oyster shells left by Indigenous groups were later quarried and burnt for lime (also a significant industry along the rivers of Sydney). The commercial cultivation of oysters in the region began in 1872; unfortunately, in the 1990s QX disease wiped out the Georges River oyster industry, ending centuries of the cultivation and harvesting of these delicacies. Drakes Oysters was one such long-standing lease. Here you can see Bob Drake in 1960 punting along the leasehold.
