Overthorpe

Item details

Name of item: Overthorpe
Other name/s: Sir John Hay's garden (part of it)(former)
Type of item: Landscape
Group/Collection: Parks, Gardens and Trees
Category: Garden Residential
Location: Lat: -33.8790666797 Long: 151.2410339500
Primary address: 337-347 New South Head Road, Double Bay, NSW 2028
Parish: Alexandria
County: Cumberland
Local govt. area: Woollahra
Local Aboriginal Land Council: La Perouse
Property description
Lot/Volume CodeLot/Volume NumberSection NumberPlan/Folio CodePlan/Folio Number
   CP/SP20175
LOT1 SP20175
LOT10 SP20175
LOT11 SP20175
LOT12 SP20175
LOT13 SP20175
LOT14 SP20175
LOT15 SP20175
LOT16 SP20175
LOT17 SP20175
LOT18 SP20175
LOT19 SP20175
LOT2 SP20175
LOT20 SP20175
LOT21 SP20175
LOT22 SP20175
LOT23 SP20175
LOT24 SP20175
LOT25 SP20175
LOT26 SP20175
LOT27 SP20175
LOT28 SP20175
LOT29 SP20175
LOT3 SP20175
LOT30 SP20175
LOT31 SP20175
LOT32 SP20175
LOT33 SP20175
LOT4 SP20175
LOT5 SP20175
LOT6 SP20175
LOT7 SP20175
LOT8 SP20175
LOT9 SP20175
All addresses
Street AddressSuburb/townLGAParishCountyType
337-347 New South Head RoadDouble BayWoollahraAlexandriaCumberlandPrimary Address

Owner/s

Organisation NameOwner CategoryDate Ownership Updated
Owners' Corporation SP20175Private 

Statement of significance:

The gardens of Overthorpe are part of a large and significant botanical collection of rare and exotic Australian rainforest species. The collection of mature trees with their massive canopies has created a micro-environment indistinguishable from a natural sub-tropical rain forest and a truly unique environment unmatched in the Municipality of Woollahra. In spite of the relatively small size of the site, it contains an historic collection of rain forest trees and palms of regional significance and importance second only to the collection in the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens.

The site was Sir John Hay's 'garden' an unusual listing in the 1880s Sands Directory at the time he resided at Rose Bay Lodge Rose Bay. This garden contained a gardener's cottage and is believed to have been the site of an Experimental Nursery. The selection of mature species suggests a possible link with William Guilfoyle's work. The magnificent specimens of great age and scale are testament to the 19th century passion for collecting and displaying rare and exotic trees.

This 'rain forest' supports a fine and large collection of palms, easily eclipsing the significant palm grove in Vaucluse House gardens and creating in places a dominant 'palm jungle' quality similar to the naturally occurring concentrations of Bangalow palms along the east coast of New South Wales. Much of the 'palm jungle' remains totally concealed to public view contained within the tree canopy. Although some trees may have been removed with the unit development on the site all those remaining have benefitted from the installation of irrigation and the high level of maintenance of these gardens.

Located below the ridgeline and Edgecliff Road, the site's elevated position visually presents a lush-vegetated hill slope dominated by massive rainforest canopies and emergent araucarias. This very sheltered location with deep sandy soils and a north easterly aspect has one of the finest and most equitable micro-climates in the Municipality allowing maximum development of sub-tropical and even tropical species. The original vegetation would have more likely also included a local rainforest component and a number of these remnant species are still present.

From New South head Road, Double Bay, near the intersection with Manning Road, the dominant canopy is from an exceptional holm oak (Quercus ilex) and one massive and rare fig, possibly the small-leaved fig (Ficus obliqua). This fig, typical of the lush Australian rain forest plantings on this site, is botanically of great significance in being one of only a few specimens of this species in the Municipality. All but one of these occurs on this site. Another feature grouping of two closely planted specimens in the front garden display magnificent buttressing and a mass of coalesced aerial roots. Although F.obliqua occurs naturally as far south as the Shoalhaven area, it is unlikely that any of these trees are indigenous remnants. In addition to these figs, two Moreton Bay figs, one in particular of magnificent proportions, totally dominate the south-eastern corner of the property. In spite of their size and historical significance the trees are hemmed in on all sides by unit development making them less visually significant.

Apart from the generally larger figs and the dominant palm groves, the property contains many individual component and mature specimens of great botanical significance, including a large chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) and bull bay/evergreen magnolia (M.grandiflora). It is this general massing of many rare species to form a rain forest environment which makes this site very special. Large trees such as the sub-tropical and locally rare coolamon or watermelon tree (Syzygium moorei) in the western garden and silver quandong (Elaeocarpus kirtonii) in the eastern garden are both superb specimens, originally from the rain forests of north-eastern NSW and south-eastern Queensland. More commonly cultivated rainforest species such as Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii), Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton acerifolium) and black bean (Castanospermum australe) are all present in these gardens. The red cedar (Toona ciliata) formerly identified as significant on the site is no longer prominent. (Morris, C. Conservation Management Strategy Overthorpe, gardens and grounds, 2010)
Date significance updated: 04 Nov 10
Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description

Construction years: 1900-1906
Physical description: Mansion (demolished):
Overthorpe was a large 2 storey Federation mansion (demolished in 1981) built in c.1900 and acquired in 1915 (Owners Corporation, 2008, 2) for Mr William Anderson who had made his fortune in the hat trade. The mansion is carefully considered in terms of siting, as it was built on a rise to command a view across the main northern gardens to the harbour.

Apartment Buildings:
The property presently contains two Mirvac apartment buildings, centrally located and towards the rear (south of the block), which replaced the original two storey federation mansion in 1981 (Morris, 2010, 7).

Grounds - Location, layout and component parts:
The site comprises 1.618 ha (c.4 acres (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991)). The mature vegetation of Overthorpe is prominent in views from the Double Bay shops (Morris, 2010, 7).

Located below the ridgeline and Edgecliff Road, the site's elevated position visually presents a lush vegetated hill slope dominated by massive rainforest (tree) canopies and emergent Araucaria (pines). This very sheltered location, with deep sandy soils and a north-easterly aspect, has one of the finest and most equitable micro-climates in the Municipality, allowing maximum development of sub-tropical and even tropical species. The original vegetation would most likely also have included a local rainforest component and a number of these remnant species are still present in the area.

The gardens of Overthorpe, the neighbouring 5 Manning Road and the right-of-way to 349 New South Head Road, together support the largest and most significant botanical collection of rare and exotic Australian rainforest species in Woollahra Municipality (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991). The site is a most historically important precinct for the occurrence of significant trees. The area contains a remarkable diversity of very old ornamental and particularly Australian rainforest and Pacific Island species, believed to reflect the early influence of (Michael) Guilfoyle's plantings dating to the middle of the 19th century. Magnificent specimens of great age and scale are testament to the 19th century passion for collecting and displaying rare and exotic trees.

Historically there was a thick band of planting on the boundaries of the property and a more open character in the centre around first, the mansion and later, the apartment blocks. Today this character is somewhat reversed with more views into the site and a clustering of vegetation and overshadowing immediately adjacent to the buildings (Morris, 2010, 2).

Large mature grounds surround the (former, demolished Overthorpe) residence presenting an excellent and intact example of the Federation period's domestic landscaping. The mature evergreen trees of camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora), pittosporum, figs (Ficus spp.) and Canary Island date palms (Phoenix canariensis), together with the front stone wall form an important element within the streetscape occurring on a prominent sweep of New South Head Road rising on the western side of Double Bay.

An excellent and intact example of domestic Federation landscaping complete with the mansion (demolished 1980) and period planting of trees, palms and ferns. The grounds and building form an integral design.

The front of the house is framed by frangipani (Plumeria rubra cv.) with under plantings of Hydrangea macrophylla and other evergreen shrubs. Dominant elements in the front and side gardens are dense stands of Lord Howe Island/Kentia palms (Howea fosteriana & curly or sentry palm, H.belmoreana) with ground layers of ground cover, being the cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior).

A sandstone boundary wall, of an unknown construction date but dating at least from the 'mansion' period of Overthorpe's history defines the northern edge of the property bounding New South Head Road.

Refurbished and relocated gateposts and gates are set partway into the site on the drive at the western end of the property. A pedestrian entrance gate is set into the boundary wall at the eastern, Double Bay, end of the property. The main entrance drive emulates the original alignment of the driveway but is surfaced with modern paving bricks.

The former service drive, surfaced in concrete, branches from the main entrance drive and skirts the western side and partway along the southern side of the property. The original sandstone block retaining walls that form the sides of this
service drive are an important aesthetic and historic element of the grounds. (Morris, 2010, 7-8).

The curved approach drive from the New South Head sandstone pillar and timber entrance gates is framed by a magnificent evergreen magnolia /bull bay (M.grandiflora) providing a vista to the house and entry flanked by low fan palms and banana-like bird-of-paradise (Strelitzia spp.) plants. Similarly the tradesmen's' approach has been skilfully integrated into the overall landscaping plan by screening it with a tree-planted earth bank to create a separate sunken cutting which runs around the perimeter of the gardens to the rear service entrance and the garages.

These rear slopes behind the house are planted with Pittosporum, beech, palms and a large specimen of Himalayan/chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) (Branch Manager's report 12/79, 31/1/1979).

Palm collection:
This 'rain forest' (at Overthorpe) supports finest and largest collection of palms in this survey (Woollahra), easily eclipsing the significant palm grove at Vaucluse House gardens and creating in places a dominant palm jungle quality similar to the naturally occurring concentrations of Bangalow palms along the east coast of New South Wales and Qld.. Much of the 'palm jungle' remains totally concealed to public view contained within the tree canopy. Although some trees may have been removed with the unit development on the site all those remaining have benefitted from the installation of irrigation and the high level of maintenance of these gardens (Landarc Landscape Architecture, 1991, Morris, 2010, 3-4).

The main groves of palms occur in the eastern garden and western entry drive area with local concentrations of each species, however the Bangalow palm is the dominant species throughout, reaching its greatest development as a single dominant species in the gully area on the adjacent 5 Manning Road 'Treetops' property.

Although palms such as cabbage (tree) palms and perhaps even Bangalow palms (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana) may have been endemic to this locality it is unlikely that any of the existing palms are descendents of the original vegetation. These palms are frequently in association with equally mature plantings of ornamental species including:
Queen (or Cocos Island) palms (Syragus romanzoffianum) from Brazil; curly or sentry palms (Howea belmoreana) from Norfolk Island; Kentia or Lord Howe Island palms (H.fosteriana); Senegal(ese) date palms (Phoenix reclinata); American cotton palm (Washingtonia filifera), a tall specimen on the site's east beside an Illawarra flame tree (Brachychiton acerifolium) and the large palm grove (Read, S., pers.comm., 2/2/09);

Fig tree collection:
From New South Head Road, near the intersection with Manning Road, the dominant canopy is from a large holm/holly/evergreen oak (Quercus ilex) from the Mediterranean immediately adjacent to one massive and rare fig tree, small leaved fig (Ficus obliqua) on the western boundary where the driveway enters the property. This fig is of great botanical significance as one of only a four known specimens in the Municipality. Three of the four of these occur on this site, the fourth one is in Babworth, Darling Point's garden). Another feature grouping of two closely planted specimens in the front garden display magnificent buttressing and a mass of coalesced aerial roots (Owners' Corporation, 2008, 12-13).

This fig tree shows evidence of past branch trimming. Ficus obliqua is relatively rare in the Sydney region, but like Eleaocarpus kirtonii (formerly identified as being present on the site) red cedar, Toona ciliata and Brachychiton acerifolius grows in rainforests of Illawarra, a common collecting region for 19th century nurserymen, in addition to growing in northern NSW. Guilfoyle's Exotic Nursery catalogues for 1851 and 1862 list both Ficus 'sp. Illawarra' ( possibly F.obliqua) and Brachychiton acerifolius 'flammea' and the 1862 catalogue lists a 'Clarence River' species of Elaeocarpus (Morris, 2010, 8).

Two Moreton Bay figs (F.macrophylla), one of magnificent proportions, totally dominate the south-eastern corner of the property. One overhangs the car park of neighbouring Bibaringa, adjacent at 349 New South Head Road (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991) In spite of their size and historical significance these are hemmed in by unit development on all sides, making them less visually significant (Owners' Corporation, 2008, 16-17). In spite of their size and historical
significance these are hemmed in by unit development on all sides, making them less visually significant. One of these demonstrates evidence of hard pruning, a very common mid 20th century management practice,5 but this has not prevented an enormous branch from growing across the driveway of the adjacent property 349 New South Head Road and almost touching the adjacent apartment building 'Bibaringa' (Morris, 2010, 8).

Other significant trees:
Apart from the generally larger figs and dominant palm groves, this property contains many individual component and mature specimens of great botanical significance. It is this general massing of many rare species to form a rainforest environment which makes this site very special indeed.

Large trees such as the sub-tropical and locally rare coolamon / watermelon/ rose apple tree (Syzygium moorei) in the western garden (actually regionally rare: one specimen is known in Rozelle Hospital/Broughton Hall's rainforest garden, Lilyfield)(Stuart Read, pers.comm., 29/1/9) (nearby two other specimens are growing as progeny from this tree)(Read, S., observation, 2/2/09) and silver quandong (Elaeocarpus kirtonii) in the eastern garden among the palm grove are both superb specimens, originally from the north-eastern NSW and south-eastern Qld. rainforests (Landarc Landscape Architecture, 1991). A large evergreen /holm/holly oak (Quercus ilex) grows near the gate / fence corner on New South Head Road (Stuart Read, observation, 2/2/09).

Apart from the generally larger figs and dominant palm groves, this property contains many individual component and mature specimens of great botanical significance. It is this general massing of many rare species to form a rainforest environment which makes this site very special indeed. Large trees such as the subtropical and locally rare coolamon / water melon / rose apple tree (Syzygium moorei) in the western garden and silver quandong (Elaeocarpus kirtonii) in the eastern garden are both superb specimens, originally from the rainforests of northern NSW and south-eastern Queensland. The red cedar (Toona ciliata, syn.T.australis) and more commonly cultivated rainforest species such as Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii) in the eastern garden among the palm grove, Illawarra flame trees (Brachychiton acerifolius) and black bean (Castanospermum australe) are all present in the gardens.

The eastern garden also supports one of the largest southern /evergreen magnolias /bull bay trees (Magnolia grandiflora) in the Municipality.

Other ornamental and exotic species include Himalayan or chir pine (Pinus roxburghii), camphor laurel (Cinnamommum camphora) and Himalayan or deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara) and the visually important frontage row of Canary Island date palms (Phoenix canariensis)(fronting New South Head Road).

A large tree resembling a coogera (Arytera sp.) a northern NSW rainforest tree is part way along the eastern boundary (Morris, 2010, 8).

Trees and palms identified as significant (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991) were:
3 x small leaved figs (Ficus obliqua) (of only 4 specimens in Woollahra LGA, one other being at Babworth, Darling Point);
2 x Moreton Bay figs (F.macrophylla) in the south-eastern corner (one overhangs the car park of 'Bibaringa' adjacent at 349 New South Head Road)
1 x coolamon / water melon / rose apple /durobby tree (Syzygium moorei)(and two progeny of this, in the site's west side;
1 x silver quandong (Elaeocarpus kirtonii) in the eastern side of the site among the palm grove;
1 x Bunya pine (Araucaria bidwillii) also in the eastern side of the site among the palm grove;

Mixed palm groves dominated by:
Bangalow / piccabeen palms (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana);
queen /Cocos Island palms (Syragus romanzoffianum, syn. Arecastrum romanzoffianum);
cabbage (tree) palms (Livistona australis);
9 x Canary Island date palms (Phoenix canariensis) along the front fence facing New South Head Road.
This same list of significant trees was adopted by Woollahra Municipal Council and listed in Woollahra LEP 1995 as heritage items (Owners Corporation, 2008, 6).

A large Port Jackson fig (Ficus rubiginosa) over 130 years old on the southern border of the property (ibid, 12-13).

4 large camphor laurel trees (adjacent to apt.2, near electricity box, adjacent to last (eastern) parking bay, west of parking bay 2)
1 x blue Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca') in central garden bed opposite parking bays (ibid, 16).

A brown/Illawarra /plum pine (Podocarpus elatus) near the western boundary (ibid, 27).

Groundcover planting:
Ground cover planting includes cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) and kaffir lily (Clivea spp.), which were growing on the site prior to the construction of the Mirvac apartment buildings in 1981. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum sp.) has since
been added to the general planting palette.

Tree ferns (Cyathea spp.), the spore production of which impacts on some of the residents, dwarf/pygmy date palm (Phoenix roebelenii), bird-of-paradise flower (Strelitzia reginae) and birds nest ferns (Asplenium australasicum) are in the gardens constructed immediately adjacent to the buildings in the 1980s. These gardens were designed to be compatible with the earlier 'rainforest' character of the gardens but have become increasingly shady in the 25years since their planting. The planting of begonias and other shade loving perennials around the entrance to the building is compatible with both the heritage character and growing conditions. The general refurbishment of the gardens by a skilled horticulturist has resulted in a garden of a very good quality (Morris, 2010, 13)..
Physical condition and/or
Archaeological potential:
Condition:
The garden is currently at tisk of losing its horticultural and aesthetic significance by becoming overgrown with trees regarded by Council as noxious weeds, specifically Cocos Island palms (Syragus romanzoffianum) and camphor laurel trees. The trees are too crowded, compete with one another, some are now quite distorted in their search for sunlight rendering them unsafe to people and property and risking health and welfare. The canopy is so dense in some areas that there is insufficient light for quality ground specimens to grow. Overshadowing is affecting the health and welfare of residents...Many of the older trees have now reached or are approaching (the end of) their natural life span.

The ...horticulturist responsible for the gardens at Vaucluse House inspected Overthorpe in 2004 and observed that the garden was overrun with what he described as non-heritage relevant plantings such as large expanses of cast-iron plant, variegated wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis) and introduced species such as Kaffir lilies (Clivia miniata) and peace lilies (Spathiphyllum sp.) These persist as they are the only types of plants that will grow in areas of restricted daylight and diminished environments (Owners Corporation, 2008, 3-5).

Cocos Island palms have proliferated and displaced Bangalow palms as the dominant species (ibid, 16).

Most of the significant specimens in the garden (see 'Description') are in reasonably good order considering how over-crowded the garden is, and how dry it was for much of the last few years (ibid, 18).

Since 2006 roots of camphor laurel trees near the south-eastern end of the property have created a severe trip hazard by pulling apart a pebble-crete drive/path way. Roots from these trees are impacting the integrity of an historic sandstone wall in several places. This is reparable at the moment but may not be the case in future (ibid, 9).

A large Moreton Bay fig overhangs the car parking area of Bibaringa, 349 New South Head Road to the south-east. A large camphor laurel here also overhangs the only vehicular access to Bibaringa. Branches from both regularly fall.

A large Port Jackson fig (Ficus rubiginosa) over 130 years old on the southern border of the property, overhangs 'Arlington', 351 New South Head Road. Council permission has been granted in the past to cut back, reduce the height and bulk of this tree (ibid, 12-13).

Archaeological Potential:
14.The sandstone boundary wall to New South Head Road and the wall of the service drive have archaeological research potential. Heritage experts have identified markings on the sandstone of the front wall that show it could be traced to early residential developments in and around Sydney Cove. The wall to the right (east) of the main entranec (historically a milk-carter's track linking several properties) was inspected and found to carry unique convict markings as found in the earliest of Sydney's historic properties (Morris, 2010, 15).
Date condition updated:29 Jan 09
Modifications and dates: A site survey was undertaken pre-demolition of the house in 1980.
6/1980 Overthorpe's brick house and rear sheds were demolished (Sun Herald, 6/7/1980).
c.1980 (time of apartment development): all camphor laurel trees bordering New South Head Road were cut to the ground so as not to compromise the streetscape provided by the Canary Island date palms (Owners Corporation, 2008, 20). Understorey plantings in the garden were mainly exotic species such as hydrangeas, Daphne, Gardenia and holly (Ilex sp.) Some still persist, although in much smaller numbers and some have disappeared.
c.1980 on completion of the apartments, 3 Canary Island date palms were planted to make up gaps in the row of these trees facing New South Head Road (ibid, 16).

7/1981 Woollahra Municipal Council granted conditional consent to construct a residential flat building with 33 units (25/8/82 letter on file).
13/7/1981 following plants reported stolen (using photographs) from garden (reported to Rose Bay Police Stn.):
3 Black bean trees; 9 Cocos Island palms; 13 Bangalow palms; 1 date palm; 1 Mediterranean fan palm (Chamaerops humilis); 1 Rhapis palm (R.excelsa)(File note).

Federation mansion demolished and replaced by two Mirvac apartment buildings in 1981 (Morris, 2010, 7).

'Some years ago' (from 2008) a large pine tree was removed from the back (north-east) corner of Overthorpe adjoining 'St.Neots' 335 New South Head Road) which was infested with termites affecting the timber framework of a garden trellis and various wooden posts in the garden. A camphor laurel tree overhanging St.Neot's terraces was trimmed and subsequently died and was removed (in this same area)(ibid, 12).

2002: large (over 100' tall) mature evergreen/Southern magnolia / bull bay (Magnolia grandiflora) tree in eastern garden fell over. Half its canopy was removed, a rolled steel joint and concrete slab attempted to right the tree but only extended its life by a few years. Later the whole tree was removed. Landarc (1991) ranked this as a magnificent specimen.
8/2004: large lily pilly (over 80' tall) fell over in a car parking area in high winds and was removed (ibid, 4-5).

Date not clear: large brown pine (Podocarpus elatus) on eastern boundary with block of flats was drastically pruned without approval. It appears to be directly related to the sale of one of these units. Most of the canopy of this tree has been removed. (Site visit, 2/2/09, pers.comm.)

2004: 120 lily pillies were underplanted under the Canary Island date palms along New South Head Road in anticipation of removal of the camphor laurel trees here. 150 golden cane palms (advanced specimens) were planted behind the lily pillies (to bolster the rainforest character of the garden)(ibid, 18).

12/2005 large camphor laurel tree fell over New South Head Road on Xmas eve and was removed by the SES.
spring 2008: over 12 significant branches ranging in weight from 5-25kg fell from fig, silver quandong and camphor laurel trees into the garden (ibid, 8).

2005-8: horticulturist employed has made considerable improvement to ground level plants, shrubs and ferns (ibid, 13).
Further information: - Emphasise the historic character of the garden through the conservation of significant trees and garden elements and replacement using the same species or materials or a species of similar character.
- Historically there was a thick band of planting on the boundaries of the property and a more open character in the centre around first, the mansion and later, the apartment blocks. Today this character is somewhat reversed with more views into the site and a clustering of vegetation and overshadowing immediately adjacent to the buildings.
- Theapproach is to recapture this original style with less planting and therefore more light in the centre of the gardens and thicker more dense plantings around the penmeter
- The recommended actions within this report will require staging over a number of years (Morris, 2010, 2).
Current use: multi-unit residential complex and grounds
Former use: Aboriginal land, suburban arboretum / estate, Federation era mansion and grounds

History

Historical notes: Aboriginal Sydney:
When Captain Arthur Phillip and the First Fleet landed, first in Botany Bay and then in Port Jackson (Sydney Harbour), in January 1788, he was met by people who had lived on this land for many thousands of years. At least 1,500 people lived in the area between Botany Bay and Broken Bay and the intermediate coast (Attenbrow, n.d.)

There were two main languages spoken in the Sydney region - Darug and Tharawal. The Darug language had two main dialects - one spoken along the coast and the other in the hinterland (west of present-day Parramatta). Tharawal was spoken to the south of Botany Bay and as far west as the Georges River and possibly Camden (ibid, n.d.)

People belonged to small groups (territorial clans) through which they were spiritually related to specific tracts of land - these clans included the Gadigal, Wanngal, Gamaragal, Wallumedegal and Boromedegal. The suffix 'gal' denotes 'people of', thus, for example, the Gadigal were the people of Gadi (also spelled Cadigal and Cadi respectively) (ibid, n.d.).

The 'district of Gadi' was reported to have stretched from South Head west to 'the cove adjoining this settlement' (Darling Harbour) - an area that would have included Centennial, Moore and Queens Parks. Watkin Tench referred to the Gadigal as 'those who reside in the bay of Cadi'. The 'bay of Cadi' is probably Kutti, the Aboriginal place name recorded for present-day Watsons Bay, and the present name of a small beach in the bay (ibid, n.d.).

The Centennial Parklands Conservation Management Plan contains the following report that provides in depth detail of the pre-colonial history of the lands that are present day Centennial Parklands, which is where the text on this page comes from: Pre-colonial Aboriginal land and resource use in Centennial, Moore and Queens Parks - assessment of historical and archaeological evidence for Centennial Parklands Conservation Management Plan (ibid, n.d.).

Double Bay is in what were once the traditional lands of the Cadigal. They occupied the South Head peninsula, managing the vegetation, and fishing and collecting shellfish from the surrounding rock platforms and waters (Wotherspoon, 2012).

Double Bay:
When Europeans arrived in 1788, South Head was the site of a number of meetings between groups of the old inhabitants and the new arrivals, and more sustained interaction took place after the establishment of the signal station at Signal Hill in 1790 (Wotherspoon, 2012).

Leopold Verguet, a French Marist Catholic missionary, described a 'tribe' led by Tamara 'in their camp under a rock at Double Bay' in 1845. There were about 20 Aboriginal men, women and children in this group, wrapped in blankets and huddled around a campfire with their dogs. They smoked tobacco in pipes, drank 'bull' (watered-down rum or brandy) and wore cast-off European trousers, jackets, hats and scarves (Vincent Smith, 2011).

Tamara's small clan lived by spearing fish in Port Jackson, begging and gathering gum from eucalyptus trees, which the women sold in Sydney. One man carried several three-pronged fishing spears. Fresh water was available from the creek that now crosses New South Head Road through a stormwater channel at Cross Street, Double Bay (ibid, 2011).

Historian James Jervis said 'Old Wingle' from Port Stephens and his wife Kitty camped on a knoll above Double Bay, on a site that is now Ascham School, with 'Bondi Charley'. They sometimes gave demonstrations of boomerang throwing in return for copper coins. Kitty died in 1859, aged about 26, from a 'chronic disease of the chest' in their bush camp near the Bayswater Hotel at Double Bay, where an inquest was held. Kitty came from Broken Bay and had previously worked as a servant in Newcastle and spoke English well (ibid, 2011).

Jack Harris, who died in the Double Bay camp in 1863, was said to be 'a relic of the now nearly extinct Sydney tribe'. Like Bungaree, who had died in 1830, Harris was fond of telling European settlers 'This is my country'. He was mourned by his widow Charlotte and buried in the Catholic Burial Ground in Sydney. Harris and Old Wingle were among the crowd that welcomed William Charles Wentworth on his return to Sydney on the steamer Benares in 1861. Wingle died of consumption at Botany in 1868 (ibid, 2011).

A Double Bay Botanic Garden:
In September 1821 Governor Macquarie visited the bay to have land marked there for the site of a Botanic Garden. In his journal, dated 4/9/1821 he wrote:
'I went by Water this fornooon acc'pd by Mr. Meehan, Dy. Survyeor-Gen'l, Mr. Chas.Fraser, Colonial Botanist, Cap'tn.Piper and Liert.Macquarie to Double Bay and there marked the future Botanic Gardens, directing about Twenty acres of Ground to be reserved and located for that purpose'. The surveyor, Meehan, refers to a visit there a few days afterwards, and mentions that Mr. Fraser, the Colonial Botanist desired 'that the Botanical Gardens should run westward to the top of the hill' (Jervis, 1960, 45).

Sir John Hay's Experimental Garden (later, Overthorpe):
The site was formerly part of Sir John Hay's experimental garden, which covered much of the eastern hill face of Edgecliff/Double Bay (an unusual listing in the 1880 Sands Directory, at the time Sir John Hay resided in Rose Bay Lodge (now Rose Bay Cottage), Rose Bay), running from Ocean Street/Road on the ridge (western boundary) to Manning Street, Double Bay (in the east). Sir John Hay MLA was the Colonial Treasurer and owned the property prior to the construction of Overthorpe (Stuart Read, pers.comm., 2002). Hay was also Vice-President of the Agricultural Society of NSW (1860-65; 1868-81; 1888-9; and vice-president of NSW commissions for International Exhibitions at Philadelphia, Paris, Sydney and Amsterdam, roles consistent with 19th century ambitions to cultivate an 'experimental' garden (Morris, 2010, 3).

Sir John Hay:
Sir John Hay (1816-1892), pastoralist and politician, was born on 22 June 1816 at Little Ythsie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, son of John Hay, farmer, and his wife Jean, nee Mair. Educated at King's College, University of Aberdeen (M.A., 1834), he studied law in Edinburgh but abandoned it. In 1838 he married Mary, nee Chalmers. They arrived in Sydney on 1 July in the Amelia Thompson, and soon settled at Welaregang on the Upper Murray. In partnership with his brother-in-law, James Chalmers, he was a very successful squatter. In 1840 Philip Gidley King arranged for Strzelecki to visit Welaregang and wrote to Hay: 'I fancy your zeal for such excursions will induce you to accompany him'.

Active in local affairs, Hay strongly opposed border duties on goods crossing the Murray River. In 1856 he was elected as 'a conservative and squatting representative' for the Murrumbidgee to the first Legislative Assembly. He carried a motion of no confidence against Charles Cowper's first ministry and attacked the legality of appointing James Martin attorney-general. Hay declined to form a ministry himself and recommended (Sir) Henry Parker, whom he joined as secretary of lands and works in 1856-57. His squatter-oriented land bill was stillborn but in 1857-59 he retained his seat and in 1859 won the Murray. In 1860 he strongly opposed (Sir) John Robertson's land bills and carried his amendment to ensure survey before selection. At the ensuing general election he was one of Robertson's few opponents to be re-elected.

David Buchanan deplored Hay's 'artificial and affected' manner, but admitted that 'as an Opposition leader, Mr. Hay conducts his opposition in a manly, dignified, and honourable way If he attacks the Government, it is on some great and constitutional question-not on the appointment of two or three policemen'. When Hay was elected Speaker on 14 October 1862 Governor Sir Henry Young reported that he was of the 'very first standing in the Colony in point of fortune, manners, education and character'. Hay won the respect of all parties for impartial discharge of his duties. In 1864 his opposition to Riverina separation led him to give up his Murray seat and he won Central Cumberland. He resigned as Speaker in 1865 and from the assembly in 1867 when appointed to the Legislative Council.

Although Hay had lived in Sydney since 1856 he maintained his Murrumbidgee runs. He was chairman of the Mercantile Bank of Sydney and a director of the Australian Mutual Provident Society and the European Assurance Society. In 1872 he refused to join (Sir) Henry Parkes's ministry but next year became president of the Legislative Council on Parkes's recommendation. Worried by the frequent lack of a quorum, in 1874 he had the size of the council increased In 1879 he told Sir Edward Deas Thomson of 'unpleasant relations with the Assembly, partly from a little injudicious management of details by those who have taken the lead amongst us, but chiefly I fear from a spirit of hostility to the Council on the part of leading men in the House'. Believing that the duty of the council was to assist the government unless some important principle was involved, Hay was unremitting in his efforts to get 'laws passed in the best form possible'. Ever jealous of the council's dignity, he complained to the governor of 'sacrilege' after (Sir) Alexander Stuart's government had put seventy-five beds in the council chamber during an all-night debate on the land bill in 1884.

Hay had many honorary duties: besides speaking at innumerable banquets he was vice-president of the New South Wales commissions for exhibitions at Philadelphia, Paris, Sydney and Amsterdam. He was president of the Highland Society of New South Wales and vice-president of the Agricultural Society of New South Wales and the Australian Club and a founder of the Union Club. He was appointed K.C.M.G. in 1878 and in 1879 members of the Legislative Council commissioned Achille Simonetti to sculpture his bust. Parkes wrote of Hay that 'Among Conservatives he would be held to be a Liberal; among extreme Democrats he would be regarded as a Conservative'. In the Freeman's Journal, 16 September 1882, 'Cassius' discerned his 'pragmatical shrewdness apt at a moment's notice to degenerate into meanness, a vision very narrow, but very sharp, a reverence for No. 1 exceedingly profound'. Hay died without issue at Rose Bay on 20 January 1892 and was buried by an Anglican clergyman in the Presbyterian section of Waverley cemetery. His wife died ten days later. Most of his estate of almost (Pounds)59,000 was left to the children of his brother James. A Riverina town is named after him (Martin, 1972 in ADB online).

Hay's garden contained a gardener's cottage and is believed to have been the site of an experimental nursery. The selection of species suggests a possible link with William Guilfoyle's Exotic Nursery, Double Bay (very nearby) as well as the general interest in rainforest species engendered by Charles Moore, Director of the Sydney Botanic Gardens (1848-96)(ibid, 3). Magnificent specimens of great age and scale are testament to the 19th century passion for collecting and displaying rare and exotic trees (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991).

Of special note is the concentration of these kinds of species (of plants) in this part of Double Bay. This site is in close proximity to Ocean Avenue and this is a most historically important precinct for the occurence of significant trees. The area contains a remarkable diversity of very old ornamental and particularly Australian rainforest and Pacific Island species, believed to reflect the early influence of Guilfoyle's plantings dating to the middle of the 19th century.

William Guilfoyle established and with his sons ran the "Exotic Nursery" east of Ocean Avenue ("three and a half acres on the flat") in 1851 and they possibly resideed at 37 South Avenue, Double Bay (now the corner of Ocean Avenue) between 1855-76. During this time the Nursery's catalogue listed "jacaranda, araucarias (amongst 130 species of conifers), date palms, nikau palms from New Zealand, coconut palms from Brazil and the East Indies, Bangalow and cabbage tree palms of the Illawarra, tree ferns from Norfolk Island and many Pacific Island plants." This list gives an insight into the diversity of available species by the middle of the 19th century and also some understanding of the cultural and historical plantings in this area. Furthermore his son Michael Guilfoyle, collected plants throughout the South Pacific and north coast (NSW) rainforests of the Cudgen area and the planting in this locality reflects this long family interest in exotic plants (Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991). The Exotic Nursery had well known large display gardens Guilfoyle also worked at the famous nearby garden of Greenoaks (now Bishopscourt) for Thomas Sutcliffe.Mort (Stuart Read, 29/1/09, adding notes to text by Landarc Landscape Architects, 1991).

Ferguson's Australia Nursery (in Camden, SW of Sydney) was an active participant in the 19th century Victorian fascination with plants and specialised in the acclimatisation of Australian native species. Plants were sold through agents located along the Australian east coast and New Zealand, and the nursery provided botanical information, descriptions and prices through regularly published trade catalogues. Worldwide, nurseries make an appearance on the urban fringes of most large cities. Fergusons established a branch outlet on Sydney's urban edge at Double Bay in the 1870s, then moved it to Hurstville in the early 20th century, as Sydney expanded. Mid-century, the nursery closed its Camden operations, sold the Hurstville site and opened at Sylvania with a further outlet for cold-climate plants at Mittagong (Willis, 2022).

Overthorpe's house was built c.1900 and it was already a landmark property when it was bought in 1915 (Owners Corporation, 2008, 2) by a Mr William Anderson who had made his fortune in the hat trade from Akubra hats. Large grounds surrounded the 2 storey mansion presenting an excellent example of this period's domestic landscaping (Dawson, 1980).

The main entrance (drive) was historically a milk-carter's track linking several properties in the area. The sandstone boundary wall to New South Head Road was found (on inspection by experts) to have convict markings showing it could be traced back to early residential developments in and around Sydney Cove. This wall is a significant landmark in Double Bay (Owners Corporation, 2008, 10).

Overthorpe's house's panelled rooms were the setting for many gracious parties and balls over the years and notable personalities entertained there included the Duke of Edinburgh. Anderson, owner from 1915 apparently had a fine garden and did not die until 1967 (Dawson, 1980).

An aerial photograph taken in 1943 shows the site as very heavily vegetated at that time (Colleen Morris, pers.comm., 10/2/2010).

The large, rambling Federation mansion in 2.5 acres of beautiful grounds was left to the Catholic Church in 1967 by Anderson (Dawson, 1980).

Overthorpe was willed to the Catholic Church, which is to auction the property on 23/3/1979. The area of land is 7,575 square metres (Branch Manager's report 12/79, 30/1/1979).

An interim conservation order was placed on the gardens in 1979 by the Minister for Planning & The Environment, but this did not include the house. The mansion was demolished in June 1980 (Dawson, 1980).

A permanent conservation order was gazetted (for Overthorpe's gardens and improvements including the service driveway, stone wall on the front boundary to New South Head Road and front entrance gates) on 4/2/1983.

The house was demolished for a Mirvac-built double apartment complex in the late 1970s. Its grounds were preserved as a condition of this development, testament to their horticultural and aesthetic significance at a time when heritage value was only just beginning to be appreciated (Owners Corporation, 2008, 2).

In 2015 Woollahra Municipal Council and the Chair of its Plaques Committee unveiled a new bronze footpath plaque outside Overthorpe to Sir John Hay. Hay, MLA was Colonial Treasurer and owned the property prior to the construction of Overthorpe. He was Vice-President of the Agricultural Society of NSW (1860-65; 1868-81; 1888-9 and also vice-president of NSW commissions for International Exhibitions at Philadelphia, Paris, Sydney and Amsterdam, roles consistent with 19th century ambitions to cultivate an 'experimental' garden. His garden contained a gardener's cottage and is believed to have been the site of an experimental nursery (Stuart Read, pers.comm., per Woollahra Council, 2015).

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)New South Wales themeLocal theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Environment/Contact: What do we know of the Contact Environment?-Environment (Natural) Control
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Changing the environment-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Cultural: Cliffs and escarpments influencing human settlement-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Cultural - Coasts and coastal features supporting human activities-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Modification of terrain-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures. Introduce cultural planting-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present. Aboriginal Culture-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent Aboriginal cultures and interactions with other cultures-Activities associated with maintaining, developing, experiencing and remembering Aboriginal cultural identities and practices, past and present. Cadigal tribe - Eora nation-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples. Scottish settlers-
2. Peopling-Peopling the continent Ethnic influences-Activities associated with common cultural traditions and peoples of shared descent, and with exchanges between such traditions and peoples. English migrants-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Private farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Ancillary structures fencing-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Attempting to transplant European farming practices to Australian environments-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Arboretums - collections of trees for ornament or forestry-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Agriculture-Activities relating to the cultivation and rearing of plant and animal species, usually for commercial purposes, can include aquaculture Clearing land for farming-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services Developing discrete retail and commercial areas-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services Developing real estate-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services Nurseries and horticultural production-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Unseen but Present-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Significant tree(s) providing urban amenity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Gardens demonstrating the travels and sojurns of a gardener-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes used for self reliant recreation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes demonstrating styles in landscape design-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes of passive recreation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes of urban amenity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings Landscapes and gardens of domestic accommodation-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Events-Activities and processes that mark the consequences of natural and cultural occurences Developing local landmarks-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Opening Up, 1818-39-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Exploration-Activities associated with making places previously unknown to a cultural group known to them. Exploring and surveying for the Crown-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Forestry-Activities associated with identifying and managing land covered in trees for commercial purposes. Coastal timbergetting-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Forestry-Activities associated with identifying and managing land covered in trees for commercial purposes. Arboretum - collection of trees for trials, display-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Modifying landscapes to increase productivity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies Pastoralism-Activities associated with the breeding, raising, processing and distribution of livestock for human use Agisting and fattening stock for slaughter-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Residential-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing townsfolk - urban villas-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. housing (suburbs)-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. A Picturesque Residential Suburb-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Gentlemens Villas-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Apartment blocks-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing professional people-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing famous families-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing politicians-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Federation Style residential development-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Gentlemens Mansions-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing public servants and officials-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities. Housing the prosperous - mansions in town and country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal 1820s-1850s land grants-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Fencing boundaries - mortared stone walls-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Suburban Centres-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Stone Wall-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Administering and alienating Crown lands-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Fencing boundaries - retaining walls and embankments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Granting Crown lands for private farming-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Sub-division of large estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Changing land uses - from rural to suburban-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Early Sydney Street-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Subdivision of urban estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages 19th century suburban developments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages 20th century Suburban Developments-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Subdivision of rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Beautifying rural estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Creating landmark structures and places in suburban settings-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Shaping coastal settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages living in the suburbs-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages living in the country-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages main street-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Cultural Social and religious life-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages A Picturesque Residential District-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Garden suburbs-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Suburban Consolidation-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Rural Estates-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Roadside Villages-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Suburban Expansion-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Developing suburbia-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Beautifying towns and villages-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Developing towns in response to topography-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Country Estate-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Role of transport in settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages Vernacular hamlets and settlements-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working independently on the land-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working with hand tools and implements-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Servants quarters-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working with plants-
5. Working-Working Labour-Activities associated with work practises and organised and unorganised labour Working on the land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. State government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Local government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Colonial government-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - grants of land for agriculture-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - surveying of land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - administration of land-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Suburban Consolidation-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - facilitating horticulture-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - town and country planning-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - conserving cultural and natural heritage-
7. Governing-Governing Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities. Developing roles for government - facilitating agriculture-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Developing cultural institutions and ways of life-National Theme 8
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Building dry stone walls and structures-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. work of stonemasons-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Designing landscapes in an exemplary style-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Designing landscapes in an exemplary style-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Building in response to natural landscape features.-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Building in response to natural landscape features.-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Architectural styles and periods - Victorian (late)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - Victorian period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - colonial period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - 20th century interwar-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - 20th century post WW2-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Architectural styles and periods - Federation Arts and Crafts-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Landscaping - Federation period-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Creative endeavour-Activities associated with the production and performance of literary, artistic, architectural and other imaginative, interpretive or inventive works; and/or associated with the production and expression of cultural phenomena; and/or environments that have inspired such creative activities. Architectural styles and periods - Victorian (mid)-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Country estates - visiting, enjoying-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1900-1950-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1950-2000-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ways of life 1850-1900-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living in a bushland setting-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Ornamental Garden-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Wealthy pastoralists homes in the city-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Living in suburbia-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Domestic life-Activities associated with creating, maintaining, living in and working around houses and institutions. Kitchens and servants-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Outdoor relief-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting gardens-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Bird watching-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gathering at landmark places to socialise-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Going bushwalking-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Gardening-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Developing collections of items-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation Horse riding-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Religion-Activities associated with particular systems of faith and worship Practising Catholicism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Community volunteering-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Joining together to study and appreciate philosophy-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Places of informal community gatherings-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Community organisations-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Belonging to an historical society or heritage organisation-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life Social institutions-Activities and organisational arrangements for the provision of social activities Developing local clubs and meeting places-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Birth and Death-Activities associated with the initial stages of human life and the bearing of children, and with the final stages of human life and disposal of the dead. Erecting and visiting monuments and memorials-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with William Anderson, Akubra hat manufacturer-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with Michael Guilfoyle, nurseryman and landscape designer-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with Charles Moore, Director Botanic Gardens and garden maker, 1848-96-
9. Phases of Life-Marking the phases of life Persons-Activities of, and associations with, identifiable individuals, families and communal groups Associations with the Hon. Sir John Hay, pastoralist and politician-

Recommended management:

Recommendations

Management CategoryDescriptionDate Updated
Recommended ManagementReview a Conservation Management Plan (CMP) 
Recommended ManagementPrepare a maintenance schedule or guidelines 
Recommended ManagementCarry out interpretation, promotion and/or education 

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of actDescriptionTitleCommentsAction date
57(2)Exemption to allow workStandard Exemptions ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) OF THE HERITAGE ACT 1977

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977.

I, the Hon James Griffin MP, Minister for Environment and Heritage, pursuant to subsection 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales do by this Order, effective at the time of publication in the New South Wales Government Gazette:

1. revoke the order made on 9 November 2020 and published in the Government Gazette Number 318 of 13 November 2020; and

2. grant the exemptions from subsection 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977 that are described in the attached Schedule.

The Hon James Griffin MP
Minister for Environment and Heritage
Signed this 2nd day of June 2022.

To view the standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977 click on the link below.
Jun 17 2022

PDF Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage ListingListing TitleListing NumberGazette DateGazette NumberGazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register 0024602 Apr 99 271546
Heritage Act - Permanent Conservation Order - former 0024604 Feb 83 220576
Local Environmental Plan  10 Mar 95 28 

References, internet links & images

TypeAuthorYearTitleInternet Links
WrittenAttenbrow, Val A pre-colonial history View detail
WrittenDawson, John1980Woollahra loses landmark - the battle to save our heritage - a victory and a defeat
WrittenJervis, James (& Kelly, Vince)1960'Double Bay and Seven Shillings Deal'
WrittenLandarc Landscape Architects1991Register of Significant Trees under Private Ownership, volume 2 (of 4) in "Register of Significant Trees"
WrittenMartin, A.W.1972'Hay, Sir John (1816-1892)', entry in Australian Dictionary of Biography View detail
WrittenMorris, Colleen, 9/20102010Conservation Management Strategy - Overthorpe Gardens and Grounds, 337 New South Head Road, Double Bay, LGA Woollahra
WrittenRichard Lamb & Associates2009Proposed New South Head Road Tree Trimming, Heritatge Impact Statement
WrittenThe Owners Corporation in association with Overthorpe's Building Superintendent and Arborcare Tree Care2008Overthorpe's Garden Management Plan
WrittenVincent Smith, Keith2011Aboriginal life around Port Jackson after 1822 View detail
WrittenWillis, Ian2022Plant Nurseries in Australian history View detail
WrittenWotherspoon, Garry2012Bellevue Hill View detail

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

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(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source

The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name: Heritage NSW
Database number: 5045523
File number: 09/2951; S90/01596; HC 32121


Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of Heritage NSW or respective copyright owners.