75 years ago Christmas came early

 In 1949 Mrs A Lee of Teralba got a big surprise. 

1949 'LOTTERY WIN AS XMAS GIFT', Daily Mirror (Sydney, NSW : 1941 - 1955), 23 December, p. 3. (Late Final Extra 3), viewed 20 Dec 2024, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article273595357

Festive Fun

Who will take home the delicious hampers?

It was smiles all round at the Lake Macquarie Family History Group meeting today as members gathered to celebrate a successful year. 

Our day started with a lively Discussion Group led by Committee Member, Jan. Jan supplied members with a Christmas themed prompt and, in turn, we dived into the recesses of our memory to share our responses. We all enjoyed our trip down memory lane.

Some of the prompts were:
What smell conjures up Christmas memories for you?
What is your first Christmas memory?
What did you do on Boxing Day?
What is your resolution for next year?

While the catering ladies set up our buffet lunch we had a very short formal meeting.

President Patrick and Secretary Valda lead our meeting

Librarian Linda prepares the Punch

Lunch is ready

During our very long lunch our photographer took the opportunity to record some of our members' smiling faces.

After some time to clean up President Patrick called for order so that the draw for the hampers could proceed.

Patrick playing Santa

A lucky winner draws the next prize

Winners are grinners

Thanks to all who contributed to the success of this event. 

We wish you and your loved ones a Joyous Holiday Season and a Bountiful New Year. 

Remembering Thomas Rossiter

In December 1924 there were many reports in rural newspapers announcing the accidental death of  Thomas Rossiter, a 16 year old youth.

1924 'FATAL GUN EXPLOSION', Northern Star (Lismore, NSW : 1876 - 1954), 2 December, p. 5. , viewed 09 Dec 2024, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article93466583

While those articles gave little information on  the circumstances surrounding Thomas' death the reports of the subsequent  funeral  and coronial enquiry relate the story of this mishap.

1924 'FATAL SHOOTING', The Newcastle Sun (NSW : 1918 - 1954), 2 December, p. 1. , viewed 09 Dec 2024, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163256624

1924 'LAKE SHOOTING ACCIDENT', Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW : 1876 - 1954), 9 December, p. 4. , viewed 09 Dec 2024, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article137774378

Thomas Leslie James Rossiter was interred in Catherine Hill Bay Cemetery/
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/152864907/thomas-james_leslie-rossiter

Thanks to reader and local historian, Ros Cheetham, who after reading this post supplied a current image of  Thomas' grave.

Photo by Ros Cheetham - August 2024

Festivities