This amphibious convertible, capable of doing eight knots, turned heads when it took a spin around Wollongong Harbour in April 1964. From the collections of Wollongong City Libraries and the Illawarra Historical Society – P33111 .
In a region bordered by ocean and with a huge lake to its south, Wollongong and its people have a long association with water in all its forms.
Wollongong City Libraries’ latest photographic exhibition celebrates water and its connection with the city’s life, economy and leisure.
Boating in the Illawarra was launched to coincide with NSW’s History Week and will be on display online and at Wollongong Library until 2 December.
During History Week (2 to 14 September) communities were encouraged to look at the stories of how water was cherished, contained, diverted, contaminated, looked after and shared, or withheld.
Wollongong City Library says the Boating in the Illawarra exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the community’s profound relationship with the stunning natural landscapes of beaches, lakes, harbours and rivers and how they have shaped the city over numerous years.
It features photographs from the library’s extensive collection – here are some of them.
Boating in the Illawarra is on display online and in Wollongong Library at 41 Burelli St, Wollongong, until 2 December. Opening hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9 am to 8:30 pm, Friday 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturday 9:30 am to 5 pm.
