The 'Trafalgar' Drip Cool Safe, manufactured by JW Rawling in the 1920s, was a key food preservation tool before electric refrigeration. It utilized evaporation from a water reservoir to cool food. Although urban households transitioned to iceboxes, this practical device remained vital in rural Australia for preserving perishables until the mid-20th century.
Tag: Local History
Sold Out! Highlights from Back to Belgenny 2026 Event
The recent "Back to Belgenny Day" at Belgenny Farm attracted over 3,000 visitors, celebrating Australia’s agricultural heritage. The event featured reenactments, vintage machinery, and craft demonstrations, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Proceeds support conservation efforts for this historic site, preserving its rich stories and landscapes for future generations.
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Strengthening Heritage Through Collaboration: Macarthur’s New Collective
The Macarthur History Collective, a loose informal alliance, formed by local history organisations, aims to foster collaboration among groups to preserve and promote regional heritage. Initiated after a successful meeting on July 19, 2026, its focus is to share resources, tackle common challenges, and engage younger audiences, enhancing community history efforts across the Macarthur region
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The Role of Lists in Local History Writing
The content explores the role of data lists in local history writing, highlighting how they serve as essential research tools for historians. While lists provide foundational facts, they lack narrative context and depth. The post argues for using data lists to enhance storytelling about communities and emphasizes the importance of combining facts with personal stories for a richer historical understanding.
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Exploring ‘By the River’: A Public Art Installation in Camden
Danielle Mate's art installation, "By the River," adorning the stairs between Chellaston Reserve and Little Sandy footbridge, features a platypus motif that reflects local Indigenous heritage. Commissioned by Camden Council and developed with community input, it enhances the area while celebrating its rich cultural history and ecology.
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Discovering Australia’s Hidden Historical Sites
The local historical and cultural landscape in Australia is highly fragmented, lacking a central repository for information. Various apps, websites, and blogs exist but offer scattered data. Clio, a well-coordinated platform in the USA, exemplifies effective organization of local history, contrasting with Australia's disjointed efforts, which face funding challenges.
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Community Recognition Morning Tea for Camden Recipients at NSW Parliament
The NSW Parliament allows Members to submit Community Recognition Statements acknowledging community achievements, charity work, and other contributions since 2017. On May 28, 2025, Mrs. Sally Quinnell MP hosted a morning tea to honor Camden recipients, including Dr. Ian Willis, joint-author of 'A History of Camden Chinese Market Gardeners 1899-1993' published by the Camden Historical Society.
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Exploring Your Hometown: Hidden Gems Await
Exploring your hometown can reveal hidden wonders and local history often overlooked. Resources like libraries and historical societies offer insights into the past, while nature provides adventurous experiences. Engaging with local culture, festivals, and unique culinary offerings can enhance your appreciation of familiar surroundings. Stay curious and discover the extraordinary in the ordinary.
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Camden History Journal Features Woman of the Year
New edition of Camden History journal Immerse yourself in interesting and exciting local stories. These gripping stories can be found in the latest edition of Camden History. The vivacious Frances, Camden's 2025 Woman of the Year, graces the front cover. Camden Museum#camdenhistory#camdenwoman#franceswarner Make sure you get your copy for sale at the Camden Museum. Contents
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Community Partnerships: Are they all that they are cracked up to be?
In 2007, Peter Scrivener reported on the community partnership between the Camden Historical Society and Camden Council, highlighting the amicable relationship and its intended outcomes. This serves as the basis for scholarly work on community partnerships. The partners' mutual benefits, clear objectives, and common goals have made the partnership successful. Informal and formal linkages and evaluations ensure its continued success.
