When I retired to Bribie Island from Sydney in 2003 I soon became fascinated with the rich history of this small place. This is the “The Cradle Site of Queensland” but there was virtually no visible evidence or recognition of this significant fact. No general information or signage, no Museum, few books about Bribie history and little information at the Visitor Centre. I am pleased to say that things have improved in the last few years with a few bronze plaques and signs along the waterfront at Bongaree, free Heritage walks and brochures available, books written by local authors, a very active Historical Society, and regular History Page articles in this magazine.
I have been conducting weekly classes in Bribie History at U3A for over 10 years now, and with my colleagues have made more than 100 presentations to various local Clubs, Groups and Organisations about many general and specific aspects of Local History. Not everyone is interested in History …..local or otherwise. However, when people start to hear or read about the remarkable people and events that have shaped both the past and present history of this small island they can get very interested. A question we are often asked, especially by newcomers to the Island is “Is there a good book that gives a good summary of Bribie history”.
Until now that has not been easy to answer. The late Warwick Outram wrote 29 books about Bribie Island history and most of these are available for reference at the Bribie Library, along with many other publications. That’s a lot or reading, and hard to absorb it all if you can’t take it home. However, the Bribie Island Historical Society has now compiled and published a great new pocket-sized, well-illustrated book titled “Bribie Island- A Handy History” which is essential reading for Bribie residents and visitors. The Book provides an overview of the major events, people and stages in Bribie’s commercial and social development over the last 250 years…
It answers a lot of the general questions that people want to know about Bribie’s past. The book will be launched at the Bribie Island Library on Tuesday 26th February at 10:30 am. You need to register your name at the Library if you would like to attend the book launch. The book will sell for just $10 and will be available at the Museum and other locations around Bribie, and through the Historical Society.
The Historical Society has monthly public meetings at the RSL Club on the second Wednesday of each month commencing at 6:30 pm with inspiring guest speakers and presentations on a range of topics. The Historical Society continues to research and document the rich history of this Island and you can view many interesting stories on our Blog Site at http://bribieislandhistory.blogspot.com or contact us on [email protected]