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District Council of Yorke Peninsula - History of Stenhouse Bay
The township was named after Andrew Stenhouse, who in the 1920's had a business called the Permascite Manufacturing Company. He helped start the gypsum industry here*. *"The Advertiser," 12th November, 1981.
The Waratah Gypsum Company had works here for the quarrying and exporting of rock gypsum. Gypsum after being washed, roasted and ground, was used in the manufacturing of plaster of plaster of paris and cement. The quality of the gypsum in this area was exceptionally high calss and most of Australia's needs were supplied from here*.
*The Geology of Yorke Peninsula, Page 74.
An unmarked grave here contains the body of a Tongan seaman who was a foreman on the vessel "S.S. Tota." His name was Dao Thanh Le and he was 27 years of age. On the 25gh March, 1940, he broke his neck in an accident on board his ship. The ship pulled into Stenhouse Bay and shortly afterwards he died. Permission was given to bring his body ashore and bury it. A carpenter from the Waratah Gypsum Company made a coffin and he was given a Buddhist funeral*. *"The Advertiser," 16th June, 1980.
The Waratah Gypsum Company closed its works and the town was sold to the South Australian Government which demolished the town except for the few houses required for the rangers of the National Parks and Wildlife Organization who look after Innes National Park*. *"The Sunday Mail," 28th March, 1982.
Stenhouse Bay was a port operated for 50 years by the Waratah Gypsum Company which established a community of 35 families to administer the gypsum workings; it had 37 houses, a community hall, school, post office, a licensed general store, and administration buildings. When production ceased in 1972 the town was offered as a going concern to the Government of South Australia for purchase.
The gypsum industry of southern Yorke Peninsula was established in 1913 at Inneston or Cape Spencer as it was originally called. It was conducted by the Permasite Manufacturing Company. The gypsum was shipped through Stenhouse Bay, being transported there on a wooden rail tramway. The jetty at Stenhouse Bay was 164 metres long and the gypsum was stockpiled at the top of the cliff. Ore trucks on rails and cables transported the gypsum down the steep cliff. Later a cutting was made through the cliff which allowed the ore to be transported directly to the jetty. Subsequently the mining at Inneston was transferred to nearby Marion Lake and later again the mining operations were amalgamated at Stenhouse Bay. Many of the buildings from Inneston were transferred to Stenhouse Bay; there were 37 houses, a community hall, school, post office, a licensed general store, and administration buildings.
The township of Stenhouse Bay was named after Andrew Stenhouse, who operated Permasite Manufacturing. This later became the Waratah Gypsum Company which had works here for the quarrying and exporting of rock gypsum. Gypsum - after being washed, roasted and ground - as used in the manufacture of plaster of paris and cement. Many of Adelaide's old houses have plaster ceilings made from gypsum from this part of Yorke Peninsula. The quality of the gypsum in this area was of high quality and supplied most of Australia's needs.
The Waratah Gypsum Company closed its works in 1972 and the town was sold to the South Australian Government which demolished the town except for the few houses required for the rangers who administer Innes National Park.
State Library of South Australia - B 62732/4
Snaps of early days at Stenhouse Bay and deposit. Bags of gypsum on tractor 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62733
STENHOUSE BAY: Three employees of the Waratah Gypsum Company standing on the shore side of the jetty used to transport gypsum for collection by ship from Stenhouse Bay, South Australia 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62732/22
Snaps of early days at Stenhouse Bay and deposit. A tractor pulling truck load of bagged gypsum along a track leading tot he jetty at Stenhouse Bay where it will be loaded on to a waiting ship. Men sitting on top of the bags 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62732/34
Snaps of early days at Stenhouse Bay and deposit. Carting gypsum from the lake. Horses and wagons 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62736
STENHOUSE BAY: Buildings at the gypsum factory operated by the Waratah Gypsum Company at Stenhouse Bay, South Australia 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62741
STENHOUSE BAY: A long line of horse drawn trucks of bagged gypsum being pulled along a metal track to the jetty at Stenhouse Bay to await transport by ship 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62738
STENHOUSE BAY: The SS 'Kopoola" anchored alongside the jetty at Stenhouse Bay where bagged gypsum is waiting for loading
State Library of South Australia - B 62739
STENHOUSE BAY: Water storage tank at the gypsum workings operated by the Waratah Gypsum Company at Stenhouse Bay, South Australia.
State Library of South Australia - B 62740
STENHOUSE BAY: A large boiler erected at the gypsum workings operated by the Waratah Gypsum Company at Stenhouse Bay; an employee identified as 'Bill' stands by the boiler 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62741
STENHOUSE BAY: A long line of horse drawn trucks of bagged gypsum being pulled along a metal track to the jetty at Stenhouse Bay to await transport by ship 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62746
STENHOUSE BAY: A group of school children with a young woman who could be their teacher, photographed at Stenhouse Bay, South Australia; names not known 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62748
STENHOUSE BAY: Premises of the store at the gypsum workings operated by the Waratah Gypsum Company at Stenhouse Bay, South Australia 1924
State Library of South Australia - B 62750
STENHOUSE BAY: 'Stan', an employee of the Waratah Gypsum Company carrying a sack of gypsum on his shoulder from the workings at Stenhouse Bay, South Australia 1924
State Library of South Australia - PRG 1373/39/66
Stenhouse Bay about 1925.
State Library of South Australia - B 7222
S. S. Ferret was an iron screw steamship of 460 tons built in Glasgow in 1871 by J & G Thomson of Glasgow. The ship was built for use in the River Clyde ferry service. This ship was wrecked in fog near Stenhouse Bay, Yorke Penninsula, while in service for the Adelaide Steamship Company. She was carrying 100 tons of beer and many of these casks washed up on nearby beaches to the amusement of the locals 1910.
STEAMER FERRET A Total Wreck NEAR STENHOUSE BAY.
Saturday 27 November 1920,Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Another vessel, the steamer Ferret, has met her fate on the treacherous coast at the southern end of Yorke's Peninsula — fortunately without loss of life. The steamer ran ashore in a dense fog at 2.50 a-m. on Sunday, Nov. 14. The locality is between West Cape and Reef Head, and situated about 3.5 miles from the factory of the Peninsula Plaster Company at Stenhouse Bay. The vessel left Port Adelaide on the previous afternoon with a full general cargo for Spencer Gulf ports. When in the vicinity of the Althorpes Lighthouse a dense fog prevented the light being seen by those on board, and consequently the vessel got off her course and ran into the breakers. She miraculously missed the reefs that project outwards from both sides of the small inlet where she now lies, otherwise the result may have had a more serious ending. The crew had a difficulty in landing— the lifeboat was twice capsized. Once the breakers caught the stern of the boat and lifting it high in the air turned it completely over endways. The men were thrown into the sea. Eventually a rope was taken ashore by Mate Gilles and attached to the hull of the Norwegian barque Ethel, which was wrecked in the same spot about 14 years ago.
Soon after the men were all safely ashore from the doomed vessel, the mate Mr Gilles, started to walk through the 4 miles of scrub to Stenhouse Bay. On arrival at the Peninsula Plaster Company's Works the manager, Mr Stan Innes, immediately despatched Mr Pfitzner on a motor bike to the Company's telephone, which is situated at the jetty four miles away. The telephonist, Mr Sweetman, was roused and messages were despatched via Maitland to the Harbors Board at Port Addaide. Mr Innes sent wagons and drays to the scene of the wreck and brought back the men and their belongings. They were accommodated in the large dining room and provided with an excellent meal and everything done to make them comfortable. Later on the tug Euro arrived at Stenhouse Bay jetty. On account of the breakers she had been unable to get near the Ferret. The men were all taken on board and the tug returned to Port Adelaide.
Captain Blair when questioned by the Press reprentatives at Port Adelaide, said he preferred to make no statement as to the cause of the disaster. "That will all come out at the enquiry," he remarked, " but you can say we wish to thank the people of Stenhouse Bay for their kind treatment of us." Naturally the news of the wreck caused some excitement at the Stenhouse Bay works and the men who were not working were soon at the spot. The heavy breakers caused the vessel to break up and the cargo —kerosene, beer, and other things, began to float about and come ashore. It was said on Monday that there were 100 tons of beer on board, and that the "visitors" to the beach bad emptied 32 barrels including 18 barrels of 36 gallons each. It was a real drunken bout. The men deserted their work at the factory, and engaged in a regular "picnic," Evidently thinking that the beer was free to all. One eye-witness said some of the men never left the beach from Tuesday until the following Sunday, when the police came on the scene—seven days after the wreck had been reported. The nearest police constable is stationed at Warooka. We cannot say why he did not put in an earlier appearance, but we are sure that if he had been on the spot on the Monday, the men would not have broken the law and broached the cargo, and the present dislocation of the works at Stenhouse Bay would never have occurred.
On Saturday afternoon last M.C. Jury, of Edithburgh, passed through Yorketown and proceeded to Warooka. He left early on Sunday morning in company with M. C. Ockendon. They reached the scene of the wreck in the afternoon. The sight of the uniforms on the cliffs caused a scattering among the ''barrel tappers"—they distributed in all directions. The men had kindled a fire on the beach, and Messrs S. Innes, J. Ramsay and H. A. Montgomery, who accompanied the police to the spot went towards it. One of the party, seeing a half burnt signal rocket, kicked it into the fire, and it immediately exploded and portion of it hit a large limestone boulder, breaking it and scattering stones in all directions. The concussion knocked over Messrs Innes and Montgomery and several of the stones struck Mr Ramsay. One passed through the brim of his hat and through the crown, and others became embedded in his legs, arms, and body. Mr Montgomery motored Mr Ramsay to Warooka and Mr Pontifex, a traveller for Messrs D. and J. Fowler, brought him into the Yorketown Hospital, where he arrived at 8-30 p.m. on Sunday evening. Dr Russell attended the injured man and extracted the stones and he is now progressing satisfactorily, but he had a narrow escape from a serious ending.
Mounted Constables Jury and Ockenden remained on the scene. The vessel was offered by auction at Port Adelaide on Friday under instructions from Mr J. W. Canaway, the average adjuster for the Marine Underwriters. The salvage operations are proceeding and a number of men have been sent down to the beach to assist in the proceeding. An auction sale of the cargo will take place at an early date.
State Library of South Australia - B 7224
Reef Head in the distance with line of breakers, near Cape Spencer, with S.S. Ferret on the right and the remains of the barque Ethel on the left. (Information supplied by a researcher) The S.S. Ethel damaged her rudder on Emmes Reef about 2 km offshore. Her final resting place along with the Ferret, is now known as Ethel Beach. S. S. Ferret was an iron screw steamship of 460 tons built in Glasgow in 1871 by J & G Thomson of Glasgow. The ship was built for use in the River Clyde ferry service. This ship was wrecked in fog near Stenhouse Bay, Yorke Penninsula, while in service for the Adelaide Steamship Company. She was carrying 100 tons of beer and many of these casks washed up on nearby beaches to the amusement of the locals 1920.
Electric Light at Stenhouse Bay.
Saturday 4 May 1918, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Permasite Company's Works. The bottom end of Yorke Peninsula promises to be a very important spot in the near future. At Stenhouse Bay the Permasite Manufacturing Company have erected a large works for the manufacture of plaster of paris etc, from gypsum. The company's jetty is situated dose to the works. The S.S. Kapoola makes regular fortnightly trips. At present there are eighty men employed, a number of whom have their wives and families living on the property. Stone houses and men's huts have been erected also a number of two-roomed tents. A large dining room is used daily by 33 men, and the manager, Mr. Stan Innis, does all that he can to make the locality livable and healthy. At the factory a second large engine is being fitted. A new elevator has been put in for carrying the gypsum, formerly it was carried by the men. The latest innovation is an up-todate electric lighting plant, which was used for tne first time last week. A motor and powerful pump has also been fixed at the gypsum claim for pumping the water off during the winter. Last week the Kapoola took away 150 tons of plaster. This week the steamer Glaucus loaded 1600 tons of gypsum. A few days ago the ladies of the Bay, to the number of nine, arranged a very homely picnic for the men, at the jetty. It was a happy gathering, and attended by the majority of the men from the works. It was quite a unique affair, being the first of its kind held at Stenhouse Bay.
WRECKED KETCH MALDON LEWIS SPRANG ALEAK AT SEA DESTROYED AT STENHOUSE BAY.
Friday 6 September 1918, Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove
News of the wreck of the well-known ketch Maldon Lewis at Stenhouse Bay, on the lower part of Yorke Peninsula, was reported to the South Australian Marine Board yesterday afternoon by the master of the schooner Alcairo on arrival at Port Adelaide. The Maldon Lewis, he reported, srang a leak off Cape Spencer on Wednesday, and she made water so fast that it was impossible to keep her afloat. Consequently, her master (Captain J. Sheridan) deemed it safe to put into Stenhouse Bay, and, if possible, to save the craft by beaching her. She, however, was dashed on the rocks with the result that her back was broken.
When the Alcairo was at Stenhouse Bay on Wednesday evening the stern of the Maldon Lewis was on the rocks, and the bow was in deep water. The ketch was dismantled, and much of the gear had been removed, including the wheel. The Alcairo brought two of the crew to Port Adelaide, but Captain Sheridan and his two sons remained behind probably to carry on salvage work.
From, what could he ascertained yesterday afternoon the Maldon Lewis was bound from Spencer Gulf to Marion Bay to load, gypsum for Port Adelaide. The first indication those on board had of trouble was when one of Captain Sheridan's sons said be could hear a peculiar noise in the hold as though kerosene cases were knocking each other. The hatches were opened, and it was found that the hold was half full of water, and the craft was leaking badly.
Fortunately the pumps were in splendid, order. They were put into use, and by hard and continual pumping the ketch was kept afloat. It became evident, however, that the crew could not keep her afloat, long, as the water was gaining on them. Consequently the craft was headed for Stenhouse Bay. The wind was blowing strongly from, the south-west, raising a heavy swell, and that swell did practically all the damage. On reaching the shore the Maldon Lewis was ponnded on to the sandy bottom from which rocks rose. The captain hoped to beach her on all sand, which was his only chance of saving the ketab. The tide was rising violently, and with everything against her the Staldon Lewis was doomed. The forceful pounding on the rocks caused her back to break, and the hold then was full of water.
Captain Sheridan, who is one of the best-known coastal mariners in the State, has been most unfortunate. He is a typical old salt, having spent most of his life at sea. He has a first-class knowledge of the South Australian coastline, particuiuarly that portion skirting the two gulfs. Kangaroo Island, ado the smaller islands, which, before she establishment of light stations, were a menace to navigators visiting Port Adelaide. Many years ago he had the misfortune to lose the cutter Enchantress at the entrance of the Port River. Last November he lost the Ina, a fine ketch of 53 tons gross, near Wedge Island, while trading to the Sir Joseph Banks group of islands. She was blown ashore on a ragged, jagged spit of granite, and soon went to pieces. The crew, however, were saved after an enforced stay of three days on an uninhabited island.
To carry on his business Captain Sheridan several months ago bought the Maldon Lewis from Captain L. T. Tulloch, another veteran mariner, who for half a century was engaged on the South Australian coast. The Maldon Lewis was of 62 tons gross, and 45 net, and was built in 1867 at River Cam, Tasmania. Several years later she was brought to Port Adelaide for Captain Tulloch, and since 1867 she has remained in these waters trading to various ports in St. Vincent and Spencer Gulfs and on Kangaroo Island. She was 69.2 ft. in length, 17.8 ft. in beam, and 7 ft. in depth.
HOUSE-TENT BURNT.
Saturday 16 November 1918, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
At Stenhouse Bay last week the house-tent of Mr. Vanstaveren, an engineer at the Permasite Works, was burnt to the ground. The tent had been nicely furnished but only the blankets were saved. A collection taken up among the employes realized about £8 .
STENHOUSE BAY SPORTS.
Saturday 30 November 1918, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Eight Hours Day a sports gathering was held at Stenhouse Bay. The following are the events and the results :—
Double-oar boat race (l mile)— Warren and Eichorn, 1, 6 min. 35 sec.; Doller and Ayling, 2, 7 min. 20 sec-.
Single-oar (1 mile)—Eichorn, 1, 7 min- 27 sec-; Gibson, 2, 8 min. 2 sec.
Seventy-five yards swim—Steve Little, 1 : John Hurly, 2 ; Bert Warren, 3.
Greasy pole—A. Gibson, 1; Eichorn, 2-
Tug of War (7 min. pull—10 men a side), single versus married —single won by half an inch.
Sheffield Handicap—M. Piggott, 1; S. Innes, 2; P. Sorenson, 3.
Old Buffers race—C. Ball, 1 ; C. Eichorn, 2; C. J. Heitmann, 3.
Sack race—R. Ray, 1; J. Hurley, 2 ; A. Slade, 3.
Running long jump—Butcher, 1 f 15ft. 10in-); S. Inqea, 2; P. Sorenson, 3.
Relay race (challenge)—M. Piggott, E. Ruediger, R. Ray, P. Reid
Standing long jump—S. Innes, 1; Butcher, 2 ; Sorenson, 3.
Three kangaroo jumps—S. Innes and Butcher (dead heat) 29ft- 6in.
Hitting the tin (ladies)—Mrs. Vanstaverin, 1 ; Mrs- S. H. Pettitt, 2.
Ladies race—Mrs- A. Gibson, 1 ; Mrs- S. H- Pettit, 2 ; Mrs. R- Powell, 3.
Permasite Cup—P. Reid's Roachey and W. Thomson's Flower (dead heat).
Siamese race—Sorenson and Gibson, 1, Ruediger and Reed, 2.
Hurdle race (1 mile)—Butcher's Speedy Tom (Herbert) 1 : W. Thomson's Jack (Ruediger) 2.
High jump—Butcher, 1 (4ft. 10 inches) ; S- Innes, 2.
Wood chopping—S. Innes. 1; W. Edwards, 2 ; P. Sorenson, 3.
STENHOUSE BAY.
Saturday 7 December 1918, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
'Enquirer'—Stenhouse Bay is situated at the southern end of Yorke Peninsula, between Marion Bay and Cape Spencer. It is about six miles from Marion Bay jetty. The name does not appear on the map as the Bay has only been recently christened The Permasite Company have erected a large factory and built a substantial jetty in the vicinity for the shipment of gypsum and plaster of paris. A steamer calls fortnightly. Mr. Stenhouse, a well-known prospector, thoroughly explored this district several years ago.
STENHOUSE BAY.
Saturday 10 May 1919, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Permasite Company at Stenhouse Bay, under the management of Mr. Innes, has done great things in a short while. It has erected a substantial stone factory, with a 100-h.p. engine, revolving belts, rock crushers, roller mills and other appliances through which the crude material is passed. On the lake adjacent to the works are layers of gypsum, varying from four to ten feet deep, over black quicksand, the latent possibilities of which no man has has yet been venturesome enough to ascertain. The raw material is carried from the lake to the factory in drays, and the finished product is hauled in trucks along a wooden railed tramline to the company's jetty, about three miles away. About twenty horses, among which are some of the finest draughts in the State, find employment on this line. Every care and consideration are shown by the manager for the comfort and convenience of the men employed. Nor are the children forgotten A juvenile academy, under the supervision of Miss Bristowe, has been established adjacent to the works, and a similar institution is conducted by Miss Forsayth at Marion Bay.-— Register !
STENHOUSE BAY.
Saturday 24 May 1919, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
A farewell social was given to Mrs. Roder, at the school building, last week. There was a representative attendance, and all present joined in wishing the departing guest success in her nursing duties in the City. Mrs. Roder has gained many friends by her valuable help and kindness in times of sickness. She will be greatly missed from the district. Refreshments were provided.
CRICKET AT STENHOUSE BAY. CORNY POINT v PERMASITE.
Saturday 3 April 1920, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Friday, March 12, the Corny Point Cricket Team left for Stenhouse Bay to fulfil a long standing engagement to meet the Permasite team. The Corny Point team camped at Cuarribie on Friday night, and leaving at daybreak on Saturday arrived at their destination at 10 a.m.. They were met on their arrival by the Manager of the Works (Mr. S. Innes) and the local Sports Committee. After inspecting the Works, the cricket pitch was examined and a little practice indulged in before lunch. Every possible arrangement had been made for the vititors' comfort, and the Permasite Committee shared the entertaining.
Play commenced at 2 p.m., Permasite batting first, and they were all dismissed for a total of 46 runs. The Corny Point bowlers shared the honors as; follows:—J. Barclay 5 for 22. W. T. Hayes 2 for 19, W. Liddiard 3 for 1. Corny Point then replied with a poor effort, being all out for 20— against the bowling of Pettitt and Wanganeen.
A short interval followed, daring which the teams were photographed.
The Permasite captain (Edwards) then decided to put Corny Point in again, and play was resumed with W. T. Hayes and A. Tamer. Corny Point took no liberties with the bowling, and just at dusk were all out for 5t. Of this tctal Hayes carried his bat for 41. Pettitt and Edwards bowled well for the home team.
Stamps having been drawn, the Secretary of the Permasite Team (Mr. Pettitt) made a short speech, which was responded to by the genial Secretary of Corny Point (Mr. Walter Klem) affectionately known to all as "Robinson Crusoe." The visitors were then taken by their respective hosts to tea, and the day was brought to a pleasaut close. It is the intention of tins Permasite Club to shortly visit Corny Point, and they will get a hearty welcome and a good game, for the kindness was much appreciated by the visitors.
Saturday 19 June 1920, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Thursday night a Mr Olds, of Stenhouse Bay. was brought into the Yorketown Hospital suffering from injuries to the knee caused through falling over the cliff. He is progressing favorably.
ACCIDENTS ON THE PENINSULA.
Saturday 16 October 1920, Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove
YORKETOWN. October 9.—On Thursday morning, while Mr. Richard Hay ward, an employe at Mr. W. Riddle's, Yorketown, was shoeing a horse, the animal became restive, and the knife Mr. Hayward was using slipped and entered his left forearm. He was attended by Dr. W. H. Russell, who inserted several stitches in the wound.—Mr. R. Croft, employed by the Peninsula Plaster Company at Stenhouse Bay, on Thursday fell out of a dray and fractured two of his ribs. The injured man was brought to Yorketown for treatment.
BEER FROM THE FERRET.
Tuesday 23 November 1920, Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove
Confirmation of the old saying, "It's an ill wind which blows no one good," is provided by an extraordinary report received from Stenhouse Bay, which is near the scene of the wreck of the Adelaide Steamship Company's Ferret. Though the vessel has been lost, many persons are stated to have found a quantity of beer from it. The boat is lying a short distance from the shore, and last week some of the cargo drifted in and landed high and dry on the sand. Casks of beer were secured, and sampled. The Ferret carried close on 100 tons of beer. Mounted Constables Jury and Orkenden are making investigations into the events of the last few days.
BEER PROM THE FERRET.
Tuesday 23 November 1920, Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove
Alleged Orgie on the Peninsula. YORKETOWN, November 22. The vicinity of the wreck of the Ferret at the reef head, a short distance from Stenhouse Bay, has during the past week been the scene of remarkable doings. It is reported that a number of persons from the Permasite Works and elsewhere visited the cliffs and the beach at Reef Head on Sunday to have a view of the Ferret. On Monday the news spread that the steamer was breaking up. Several men from the works proceeded to the spot, and on their arrival observed a portion of the wreckage and cargo floating inwards. Among the cargo which became beached were casks of beer. Some of the men decided to broach a small barrel of the liquid. Later another cask was found and tapped. Those who were able to carry on resolved to treat their mates at the works to a "free booze". A vechicle was commandeered, and a barrel was placed on it, and on arrrval drinking was resumed. A party then returned to the beach for more liquor, and the pugnacious element in some of the men was aroused. Fighting of a more or less serious nature, it is reported, took place among several of the imbibers, while others had indulged so freely that they were unable to take any further part in the proceedings.
Similar scenes occurred until Friday. Mr. Innes (manager of the permasite works), who on Tuesday was appointed salvage officer, has done all possible to restrain the men, and on Friday afternoon have decided to close down the works. He has salvaged a good deal of cargo on the beach, among which was beer. This, however, was taken by some men irrespective of Mr. Innes's official position. It is stated that there was about 100 tons of beer on board the steamer. The master of a vessel which arrived at Marion Bay daring the week hired a turnout to visit the wreck. On his arrival at the Head, he fastened his horse and proceeded to the scene. In his absence several men took the vehicle and used it for conveying casks from the beach. On the journey the buggy broke down, and the barrel was stowed away for future use.
M. C. Jury, of Edithburgh, proceeded to the place by motor car on Saturday afternoon, and will prohably be joined by M.C. Ockenden, of Warooka. While some rubbish was being burned on the beach yesterday, an explosion occurred, and a man was injured.
Sports at Stenhouse Bay.
Saturday 5 November 1921, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The annual sports were held ar Stenhouse Bay on Fight Hours' Day, Oct. 12 The following is a list of the prizewinners:—
Married Ladies' Race, Mesdames S. Innes, McRostie, Burridge ; Sincle Ladies' Race, Misses F. Muholland, M. Akerman, A Beal ; Hitting the Tin, Mrs. McRostie, Mrs. W. Daley, Miss F. Mulholland ; Needle and Thread. Mr. and Mrs. S. Innes, Mr. Mitchell and Miss Sunberg, Mr Stebhens and Mrs Mcltnstie; Stepping the distance. Miss M Akerman, Miss A. Sun'erp, Mrs. H Burridge ; Whistling Race, Mr B. Keener nnd Miss L. Akerman, Mr. and Mr P. McRoistie, Mr. P Stephens and Mrs. H. Kessner ; Lighting Cigarett., Mr. P. Stebbens and Mr McRostie. Mr. F. Betts and Miss Akerinan, Mr. P. Mitchell and Miss Sunberg ; Gretna Green, Mr. P. Stebhons and Mrs. McRostie, Mr and Mrs. S. Innes, Mr and Mrs. S. Pettitt ; Hitting the Nail Mrs. J. Taylor, Mesdames Laurie, Pettitt, Kessner, Burridge, and Miss Sunberg divided second and third prices; 100 yds.. H. Wenslink. P. Stephens ; Pillow Fight, O. Slow, H. Angie; Woodchopping, S. Innes. F. Scharber ; Old Beffers Race. T. Mulholland, C. Ball ; Climbing Pole, S Innes, J. Bailey; Potato Race. P. Stephens. H. Miller, L. Faggotter; Siamese Race, McRostie and Stephens Pettitt and Wesslink ; Putting the Shot, L. Tout, S. Innes ; Tossing the Cab r, P. Stephens, T. Moriirty; Sack Race, P. Stebbens, H. Miller ; Novelty Pick-a Back Race, P. Stebbens and S. Innes, L. Faggotter and H. Keshner. In most events three prizes were awarded. The prizes were distributed on Wednesday, Oct. 26.
MAN DROWNED AT CAPE SPENCER.
Saturday 17 March 1923, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
News reached Yorketown on Monday that a man had been drowned near Stenhouse Bay Jetty. M. C. McDonald proceeded to the locality on horseback on Monday afternoon, and arrived at Stenhouse Bay early on Tuesday. From the information that can he gleaned it would appear that two men, named John Topping and Patrick Keating, left their camp on Sunday afternoon for the purpose of fishing. They got on it ledge of rocks a short, distance from Mr. Sweatman's residence, and had not been long there when Keating caught a fish, and turned to get some bait from a tin which was on a rock a few yards away. He immediately heard someone call out "Paddy!" and on looking around saw Topping in the water. Keating threw out a fishing line to Topping, but it failed to reach him, and Keating then entered the water. The sea, however, was so rough that he could not be of any assistance, and Topping disappeared from view a few yards from the cliffside. Keating at once informed Mr. Sweatman, and they returned to the cliffs, but no trace of Topping could be seen. The ledge of rocks from which the men were fishing was very slippery, and the sea is always breaking with considerable force against the rocks. It is surmised that the missing man had caught a fish, and in his efforts to land it had slipped off the rocks, which are of a precipitous nature there. Topping, who was a resident of Edithburgh for some years, leaves a widow, son, and daughter, who reside at Edithburgh. M. C. McDonald patrolled the locality on Tuesday but could see no signs of the body. A strict look-out is being kept. It is stated that there is a heavy undercurrent at the spot where the unfortunate man got into the water. At the time of going to press no information had been received that the body has been recovered.
MISSING LABORER'S WILL.
Friday 30 March 1928, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
In May, 1925, a judge in chambers made an order empowering the Public Trustee to receive the estate of John Topping, late of Edithburgh, laborer, who was washed off the rocks at Stenhouse Bay on March 11, 1923, and not seen or heard of again. The Public Trustee received as much of the estate as possible, and paid the creditors. On Tuesday, February 28, in the Full Court, consisting of the Chief Justice (Sir George Murray), Mr. Justice Napier, and Mr. Justice Piper, an application was made by Mr. R. Irigleby, K.C., who appeared, with R. C. Wilson, for the Public Trustee, to revoke that order; to empower the Public Trustee to swear that Topping died on or since March 11, 1923; and to prove his will, so that the money could be paid over to the sole surviving beneficiary, Mrs. Lena Nancarrow, of Largs Bay. The application was granted.
ACCIDENT AT CAPE SPENCER.
Saturday 21 April 1923, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Saturday last Mr. Bert Loader, an employe of the Peninsula Piaster Company at Cape Spencer, was engaged in unloading plaster from trucks at Stenhouse Bay Jetty, when one of his feet slipped and a loaded truck, weighing about three tons passed over it. Mr. Gibson, an enginedriver at Cape Spencer, motored the injured man 60 miles to the Yorketown Hospital. Mr. Loader's foot is severely crushed, and it will be many weeks before he will have full use of it.
A LEAKY SHIP.
Saturday 7 July 1923, Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1923) Trove
Our Yorketown correspondent writes on July 5:—On Friday night last, the threemasted schooner, Rooganah, well-known on the southern seaboards of the Commonwealth as the Tasmanian flyer, put into Stenhouse Bay Jetty (belonging to the Peninsula Plaster Company), in a leaky condition. At the request of Capt. S. C. Loverter, master and owner, Mr. Robert Sweetnam, jetty manager, telephoned to Port Adelaide for a tug. The captain stated that during a heavy mist on Thursday, his vessel ran into the breakers, and touched the rocks near to North Shields (Spencer's Gulf). On arrival at the jetty, the schooner's hold was well filled with water, and the crew, who had worked hard at the pumps for about 24 hours, were almost exhausted. Mr. Sweetnam called for volunteers to assist at the pumps, and by the time the tug Leveret had arrived, willing hands had most of the water out. A few bags of plaster and cement were placed in the hold to stop the leakage temporarily. Two of the Permasite Company's employes (Messrs. Boden and Hayles) proceeded in the vessel to Port Adelaide. After about 14 hours' trip, the Leveret with her charge arrived there. Capt. Loverter was accompanied in the Rooganah by his two sons (aged 10 and 14 years respectively) who were enjoying a sea trip during their school holidays.
MESSAGE IN BOTTLE "THIS DAY s.s. SURADA SANK." BELIEVED TO BE HOAX
Saturday 11 August 1923, Recorder (Port Pirie, SA : 1919 - 1954) Trove
ADELAIDE, Friday.-"This day the s.s. Surada sank with all hands".
- This startling message was found written in ink and concealed in a bottle which was washed ashore at Cape Spencer. The bottle and document were taken to Stenhouse Bay yesterday and Capt. Speels of the Gulf steamer Kapoola brought the missive to Port Adelaide. It is now in possesion of Captain Henry, Director of the Commonwealth Lighthouse Service , who is making investigations regarding the authenticity of the message. It was on the British-India Steam Navigation Company's printed memorandum form. The Surada flew the British-India flag.
The message reads; "This day s.s. Surada sank with all hands off the" coast of W.A., latitade 10.05 north and longitude 101.8 east. Dr. R. Ahmed Esplanade ;East, Calcutta; Quartermaster A. Ahmed s.s. Surada, B. I. Line, .Calcutta." The latitude and longitude given are in the Gulf of Siam, but should the ten degrees north be an error for south of the Equator the location would be near Cocos or Keeling island more than 1,000 miles from the Western Australian coast.
The Surada was last at Port Adelaide on April 7 and she proceeded to the eastern States. The fact that the message bears no date and is written in ink seems to question its credibility. The agents for the British-India line (Messrs McDonald, Hamilton and Co.) have no word of mishap to the steamer. It is believed at Port Adelaide, that the message is a hoax, although It is possible for prevailing ocean currents to carry the 'bottle from the Indian Ocean to Cape Spencer. The Surada is one of the British-India Company's regular traders between India and Australia and is a steel screw steamer of 5234 tons. She was built for her present owners in Glasgow in 1902.
Visit to Cape Spencer.
Saturday 31 May 1924, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Tnesdxy the Committee, acoompanied by Mr. Jas. Ferguson (Mayor Yorketown) Crs W. R Kelly and R Wilkinson, and Mr. E. E Lloyd (Town Clerk), visited the gypsum claims at the lower end of the Peninsula. At Stenhouse Bay and Upper Spencer they were shown over the vast works of the Peninsula Plaster Company by Mr Will Innes (the Managing Director). Mr. Stan Innes (Manager of the Factory), and Mr. Tom Speed (Chief Consulting Engineer The members of the Railway Commitee were more than surprised at the wonderful organisation and the big work that had been undertaken The splendid social system and the complete understanding that exists between employer and employee drew forth many favorable comments The visitors were entertained at a sumptuous diuuer and an appetising tea by Mrs. Stan Innes. In the evening a social and danoe was held in the Cape Spencer Hall, where a pleasant time was spent. The programme oonsisted of vocal and instrumental items, elocution, selections on the harp, and sapper. During the evening opportunity was taken to weloome the Railway Standing Committee to Cape Spencer, to which suitable acknowledgements were made Thanks to the kindness of Mr. Tom Speed the party were accommodated tor the night in his fine, roomy bungalow The Yorketown party left at 5 am. on Wednesday for the return journey, and arrived at Yorketown at 8 30 a.m. all having thoroughly enjoyed the visit. The members of the Railway Committee left at 9 a.m. and proceeded to Maitland via Warooka and Brentwood The Chairman (Mr Robinson) acknowledged that their visit had provided tbem with a vast, amount of valuable and useful information about the gypsum industry on the Peninsula which would help them when framing their report for presentation to Parliament portion to the broadcasting companies. The position is a delicate one, as the conditions are new. It is to be hoped that the authorities will be fully seized with the importance of this new branch of science in relation to people in the country, and in arriving at a decision will be guided by what is best for those who live beyond the city boundaries where amusement and news are already well catered for. Hasell's Gypsum Works at Marion Bay were offered for sale by auction in the city on Thursday, but were passed in. The highest bid was £l9,800.
A BROKEN SHOULDER.
Saturday 12 July 1924, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
At Stenhouse Bay on Saturday afternoon Mr. Harold Denham, steward on the steamer Nalpa had his shoulder broken. He was standing on the jetty when a stanchion, supporting one of the steamer's boats, gave way. The boat fell on Mr. Denham and caused the injury. He was brought to the Yorketown Hospital and attended by Dr. Russell.
VISIT TO CAPE SPENCER. photos
Saturday 11 October 1924, Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove
THE PLASTER AND GYPSUM INDUSTRIES. The views were taken during a visit to the Cape Spencer district. I. The jetty at Stenhouse Bay, used by the Peninsula Plaster Company for shipping gypsum and plaster. 2. At Marion Bay, where the jetty is leased by Mr. A. H. Hasell, for the shipping of gypsum. 3. Lake, factory, and a portion of the township at Cape Sponcer. 4. A glimpse of the coastline. 5 and 6. The factory of the Peninsula Plaster Company, situated about three miles from Stenhouse Bay. 7. Legislators and officials from Yorketown. From the left— Messrs. S. Innes (factory manager), Peter Allen, M.P., and W. Innes (.managing director of the company), Councillor W. R. Kelly, Mr. E. E. Lloyd (town clerk of Yorketown), the Hon. T. Pascoe. Messrs. C. N. Richardson, and E. H. Giles (president of the Yorke Peninsula-Wallaroo branch of the Liberal Union), the Hon. W. G. Duncan, Mr. James Fergusson (Mayor of Yorketown), R. Kinnane (chairman of tho Yorketown School Board), and Mr. 0. Jung (chairman of the Coobowie-Wool Bay Barley Pool).
PLASTER SHIPMENTS. WOOKATA TROUBLE STILL UNSETTLED.
Saturday 9 May 1925, Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove
The trouble which arose some weeks ago in connection with the handling of plaster brought over by the Coast Steamship Company's steamer Wookata is by no means settled, for the men snow a strong disinclination to handle the cargo, which they claim is of an objectionable nature, and unhealthy. In the case of the Coast Steamship Company, an arrangement was made between the payment of threepence an hour extra for the handling of Stenhouse Bay plaster, and sixpence an hour extra in respect to plaster coming from Cape Thevenard. It seems to be largely a matter of the texture of the bags, for, in the one instance, the plaster works through and stands up on the bags so that the men in handling it make a dust which they must inhale. Negotiations have been going on between the employer generally and the Waterside Workers Union branch at Port Adelaide, but no finality has been reached. The men have taken the stand that if they cease work, or refuse to handle this class of cargo, their interpretation of the award is that the Reference Board, appointed to prevent the hold up of work cannot he called upon to decide the matter. The branch seems to have taken a strong objection to having matters decided by the Reference Board, as provided for in the award. In regard to loading the plaster on to interstate ships, the position appears to he almost at a deadlock at present. In the ease of the Mackarra, however, which has been taking in cargo for eastern States' ports under the agency of Messrs. Howard, Smith, Limited, the men on Monday agreed to load on to the vessel 100 tons of plaster, without prejudice, on the payment of sixpence an hour extra. With the shipment of this quantity, 123 tons of plaster remains awaiting shipment to other States.
When it was suggested to one wellknown shipping-manager at Port Adelaide on Monday that it seemed as if the only way to get over the difficulty was for the plainer to be placed in paper-lined casks, as is done with English cement prepared for export, he said he did not consider that was necessary. He thought it might be overcome by using bags of finer texture. He stated tbat the companies manufacturing plaster were only a little more than paying their way, and to mount up their expenses by having to barrel plaster, would make, the cost prohibitive, which would result in the works having to close down, with resultant unemployment.
CAPE SPENCER.
Saturday 15 August 1925, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Mr. Sol, Sairtiders Drowned While Fishing. Shortly after dinner time on Sunday last Messrs. Sol. Hyam Saunders, Chas. Dorler, and Samuel Carter, employees of the Peninsula Plaster Company, accompanied by Alan Carter, son of the last named, proceeded to the rocks below Cape Spencer headland for the purpose of spending an afternoon's fishing. Saunders, after getting bis fishing tackle ready proceeded towards Cable Bay, and was lost to sight round the corner. Fishing went on until about 4.30, when Dorler and the two Carters decided to return to their camp, leaving Saunders behind. There was nothing unusual about this, as Saunders had on previous occasions remained alone to pursue his fishing. Saunders not putting in an appearance later in the evening, the Manager of the Works (Mr. Stan Innes) was informed, and he organised search parties.; who proceeded to the locality where Saunders was last observed. Diligent quest was carried on until a late hour, when it was decided to relinquish the search until next morning. On Monday morning the search was resumed, and at 6.30 a.m. Messrs. Robert Fraser and Herbert Burridge discovered the dead body of Saunders wedged between two rocks and immersed up to the hips in water. It is surmised that he attempted to step from one rock to another and missed. M.C. G. E. McDonald (Yorketown), police officer in charge of the district, on receiving intimation proceeded to Cape Spencer, and after making enquiries, officially reported to the Coroner (Mr. Stan. Innes, J.P.), who deemed an inquest unnecessary. The body was recovered, and during the morning was placed on board the s.s. Kapoola, which was lying at Stenhouse Bay, and conveyed to Port Adelaide, from whence it was removed to his mother's residence at Walkerville Road, St. Peters. The remains were interred at the Jewish Cemetery, West Terrace, on Wednesday. Deceased was aged 36 years, single, and had been employed at Cape Spencer for over four years. He was extremely popular with his workmates and officers. Deceased was well known in Edithburgh (where he had previously been employed) and Yorketown, and was a member of the Editbburgh Lodge R.A.O.B. The late "Sol." was always of a most cheerful nature, and widespread regret has been expressed at his untimely end. We extend to his mother and other relatives the heartfelt sympathy of the community of Southern Yorke Peninsula.
CAPE SPENCER. RUN OVER BY A TRUCK.
Friday 27 May 1927, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
At Stenhouse Bay on Monday last an unfortunate accident happened to the 11-year old son of Mr. James Bell of Melbourne. The lad was playing on the trucks at the jetty and had the misfortune to slip and the loaded truck ran over his legs. He suffered from very painful and serious injuries. The lad was brought to the Yorketown Hospital by Mr. Slow. Dr. A. B. Russell on first examination of the injuries did not give any hopes of the lad again being able to walk, but later on he felt more hopeful. As soon as convenient Mr. Bell wiil take his son to his home in Victoria. They left by the Warrawee on Thursday morning.
OVERSEAS COMPETITION
Thursday 23 August 1928, News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove
Plaster Trade Affected As a result of overseas competition, believed to be German, it is likely that the plaster and gypsum trade between Thevenard and Stenhouse Bay and Sydney will be seriously affected.
It is reported that plaster is being dumped in Sydney, and that low wages ruling abroad has made it possible for overseas rivals to deliver plaster to Sydney at 12/ a ton less than is paid for the South Australian product.
The steamer Oorama, of the Adelaide Steamship Company, Limited, which is generally employed in the trade, has been withdrawn from the run. It has left Port Adelaide for Tasmanian ports to load produce for eastern States ports.
The Noora has left Thevenard with a cargo of gypsum for Sydney. This vessel will continue on the trade for the present.
ACCIDENT AT STENHOUSE BAY.
Friday 30 August 1929, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
On Monday Mr. Fred Carabatt had an unenviable experience. He was assisting at the jetty work at Stenhouse Bay when a rope sling became entangled around one of his legs, and he was hauled off the jetty and thrown into the water. He struck one of the poles and broke several ribs. Three men dived off the jetty to his help, and assisted in bringing him ashore. He was conveyed 60 miles to the Yorketown Hospital, where he is making satisfactory progress.
"ROYAL PROPERTY." 70-Feet Stranded Whale.
Monday 10 August 1931, Recorder (Port Pirie, SA : 1919 - 1954) Trove
A whale, which has been washed up near Cape Spencer on the southern side of Yorke Peninsula has at tained a new dignity, for it is now a Royal fish although a dead one.
According to a Common Law ruling, which has been in force for hundreds of years, any whale washed up on the coast of a British country automatically becomes the property of the Crown. Thus the mammal nowlying cold and stark on Yorke's Peninsula is Royal property.
Mr. R. B. Paterson (harbormaster at Edithburgh) reported the discovery of the whale which is 70 ft. long. It is on the beach between Stenhouse Bay and Rhino Head.
It is estimated that the whale would yield between 2,000 and 3,000 gallons of oil if it could be boiled down, but there are no facilities near the spot, where it is lying half submerged.
It is understood that the Fisheries Department will not claim the Royal fish, but it may yet have its Royal bones lying in state in the Museum.
Mr. A. M. Lea (entomologist at Adelaide Museum) said today that the whale was probably a blue one. He thought that it might have been killed by whalers and lost during a gale. He did not think that the oil which might be available would be of any cornmercial value. If the whale proved to be different from the one which the Museum now had the authorities would take steps to secure the specimen.
Hougomont's Fate. Will Be Used As Breakwater At Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 23 December 1932, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Finnish sailer Hougomont, which has remained at the Semaphore Anchorage for seven months as a reminder of the fury of the Great Australian Bight storms, has been sold to the Waratah Gypsum Company, of Marion Bay. She will be towed down the Gulf to Stenhouse Bay next week to form a breakwater there for the re-built loading berth. Captain Ragnar Lindholm, who was the master of the Hongomont, intends to stay with her until the last. He will make the passage to Stenhonse Bay with her, and will supervise sinking operations. As the vessel has no sea-cocks, dynamite will be used. She will be sank in about 20 feet of water, which will leave her deck just above the sea at high tide. The Company have prepared moorings for the vessel on the western side of the jetty.
RESTING PLACE OF HOUGOMONT.
Monday 9 January 1933, Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove
Now Breakwater In Stenhouse Bay By Radio From Our Reporter On The Tug Wato January 8.
Making the tow in favorable weather, the barque Hougomont reached Stenhouse Bay at daylight yesterday, having made the 84 miles trip In 13 hours. The vessel was manoeuvred into the position, where she will be used as a breakwater. A charge of dynamite was exploded In the forehold, and the ship slowly sank, until only the decks and rails were above the water.
Leaving Semaphore on Saturday afternoon, in tow of the Wato, the Hougomont made her last trip, which was a model one. She rode the seas like a liner, and never faltered. At Stenbouse Bay difficulty was experienced in mooring her. About 11 am a terrific explosion shook her, and the Hougomonts end had come.
Captain Lindnolm. who was the last of the crew to leave her, said, "Sinking her is the saddest job of my life." The Wato left on the return journey late this afternoon.
HER LAST VOYAGE. The Hougomont being towed from the Semaphore anchorage on Saturday to Stenhonse Bay to be sank to form a breakwater.
Harbors Board. Inspection at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 3 February 1933, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The chairman (Mr. E. A. Farquhar) and secretary (Mr. Peake) of the Harbors Board, visited Stenhouse Bay last week. They were accompanied by Mr. Baddams, harbormaster at Port Adelaide. They left Osborne Wharf, Port Adelaide, in the steamer Iron Prince and travelled the 88 miles by sea. After inspecting the recent improvements and the new "Hougouiont'' breakwater, they returned by car to Edithburgh, a journey of 70 miles by road. An inspection was made of the Edithburgh jetty and stacking sites, with similiar inspections at Stansbury and Port Vincent, from which port the journey was completed to Port Adelaide in Coast Steamships' steamer Kapoola.
STENHOUSE BAY
Friday 9 March 1934, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Annual Sports day of the Waratah Gypsum Company was held in February 24th, and the committee are to be congratulated on the successful carrying out of a very comprehensive programme.
In the morning commencing' at 10 o'clock, the children's part of the programme was carried out, and the adult portion in the afternoon. In the evening a very successful dance was held in the Inneston Hall. The sports were held in what is known as Jolly's Paddock and any one passing would have been surprised to see the number of cars that were lined up. Hot water was provided and residents brought their own pro visions with something extra for visitors. The novelty events caused much amusement, and every event was contested by very enthusiastic entrants. During the evening Lucky Spot and Monte Carlo Dances were won by I. Timper and Mrs. and Mr. Llovd respectively. The cup donated by Mr. L. S. Davis for the Sheffield handicap was presented by Mr. S. Innes on behalf of Mr. Davis, who was away owing to ill health.
The following are the results— Boys over 6 and under 8 years, K. Walker, J. Hickman; Girls over 6 and under 8 years, N. Sobey, S. Goldner; Boys over 9 and under 11 years, J. linnes, M. Davis; Girls over 9 and under 11 years. S. Trimper, D. Sobey; Boys over 12 and under 14 years, D. Trimper, D. Hickman; Toddlers, M. Haddock, Hettie Walker, M. Morton; Children's Novelty Races, Girl Skipping, I. Trimper, D. Hickmann: Boys Potato Race, K. Lloyd K. Sobey; Girls Potato Race I. Trimper, D. Trimper; Sack Race, M. Morton, S. Walker; Girls three legged race, G. and D. Hickmann, W. Sobey and J. Baddock: Boys 75 yards, J. Innes, K. Walker; Apple Robbing. M. Haddock. K. Lloyd.
Adults—Sheffield Handicap, 133 yards. 1st Heat. R. Sobey, L. Trimper; 2nd Heat, C. Read. W. Angie; 3rd Heat, T. Nelson, Tony Yendranin; 4th Heat, T. Metcalf, R. Morton; Final Heat, R. Metcalf, C. Read. Putting the Shot, R. Metcalf. S. limes; Old Buffers Race, W. Trimper, K. Aldenhoven; Thread the needle. Mrs. Hickmann, J. Cowled; Men, 100 yards, A. Jenzen, G. Slow, S. Trimper; Throwing the Caber, E. Lange. F. Jenzen; Three Legged Race, C. and A. Jenzen. F. Jenzen and It. Haddock. Cotton Winding, Mrs. Cowled, Mrs. Davis; Tug of War, C. Salotti's Team; Hop, Skip and Jump, R. Morton. A. lenzen; Long Jump, Standing. K. Nelson. Tony Yendranin; High Jump, Men, L. Trimper, I. Bard; High Jump, Boys, K. Lloyd. 1. Trimper; Single ladies Race, Z. Trimper. L. Chines; Married Ladies' Race, Mrs. Innes, Mrs. Hickmann; Novelty Races. Catching the Rooster, Children, Stan Walker; Catching the Rooster. Ladies, Mrs. Hickmann; Greasy Pig. children. K. Sobey; Greasy Pig, men, Clem Jenzen.
A Famous Frenchman VISITS STENHOUSE BAY.
Friday 13 April 1934, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
M. Thurneyssen passed through Yorketown on Saturday on his way to Stenhouse Bay. He was accompanied by Mr. W. Innes, Managing Director of the Australian Gypsum Products Ltd. They were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Stan Innes at Inneston until Monday, which place they left at 4 a.m. to catch Bastin's Bus at Yorketown at 7a.m Last Saturday's "Mail" stated that M. Thurneyssen is a director of the Nickel Producing Coy. of New Caledonia, and is on his way to Noumea, where he will live for three months. He disembarked from the Orama at the Outer Harbor on Saturday to visit the gypsum deposits at Stenhouse Bay, before continuing his journey to Melbourne, where he will rejoin his wife in the Orama. Madame Thurneyssen is making her first visit to Noumea. She is taking two wardrobes with her to Noumea. One is composed almost exclusively of silk washing frocks to meet the tropical conditions of New Caledonia, and the other of heavy winter clothes. On their way from New Caledonia Monsieur and Madame Thurneyssen will go to Canada for the winter.
Paper Tour Of Yorke Peninsula.
Thursday 7 March 1935, Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove
DEAR BEETEE.— I wonder how many of your readers have any idea what an interesting part of the State this end of the Peninsula really is, with Its salt lakes and gypsum claims. A most enjoyable trip can be made by leaving Yorketown, going through Warooka and on to Corney Point. Here there Is a lighthouse which is needed as this is a very rugged and rough part of the coast. After leaving here one passes Brown's Beach and Gleeson's Landing and then on to Pondalowie Bay with its beautiful sandy beach and three rugged islands guarding the entrance of the bay. Travelling further south we come to the 'Ethel,' an Iron barque which was washed up on the beach some years ago. she Is lying against the cliffs which are about 180 ft. high.
Busy Ports
The next place of interest is Cape Spencer, which has seen better days. We then ascend Cable Hill, from which there Is a splendid view of the Althorpe Islands. Travelling east again the next place of call Is Stenhouse Bay, a busy little port, as there are both gypsum claims and salt lakes worked between here and Marion Bay. There, too, is another ship, the 'Willyama,' which was wrecked some years ago. There are not any houses at Marion Bay now, for as they were weatherboard, they were moved to Stenhouse Bay for the men to be nearer to the works there.
Ideal For Fishermen
This bay has a very long Jetty, lovely sandy beach and is a very popular place for amateur fishermen. Leaving here one passes through Cape Yorke, Sandy Point and back to Yorketown. Through this country there are some beautiful hills covered with dense growth in which kangaroos, emus and bronzewlng pigeons are to be seen.
Black Snake Mystery.
Friday 29 March 1935, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Mr. H. J. Johnson, butcher, of Edithburgh, had an unenviable experience while returning from Stenhouse Bay a few days ago. He was driving along a bush track through scrubby country, when he sighted a snake, and stopped with the intention of killing it. The snake crossed under the car and Mr. Johnson ran around to intercept it, but it did not put in an appearance. The undercarriage and interior were carefully searched and all efforts to locate the reptile failed. Mr. Johnson reluctantly got into the car and returned home. Throughout his 40-mile drive his mind was occupied with the thought that a dangerous reptile was a passenger hidden away somewhere in the car. A further examination when he arrived home proved equally ineffective. The following day Mr. Johnson brought his wife to Yorketown, and later while on his round at Wool Bay, was describing the occurrence, when the customer drew his attention to the snake, which was crawling round the front door of the car and the windscreen. Each securing a stick, (Mr. Johnson pulling a picket off the gate), a desperate fight ensued in which the snake savagely fought for life from the front seat of the car. Eventually the jet black reptile, which was a shade under four feet, was killed. On examination of the car, it was seen that the snake had emerged from a cavity in the body of the car into which a glass window used to slide, but which is now unoccupied. The cavity extends to the bottom of the car body; the framework underneath being broken, the snake evidently climbed on to the back axle and darted into the hole and remained there until it found the exit door.
Road Wanted to Stenhouse Bay
Friday 4 March 1938, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Sir,— Recently 1 visited the bottom end of Southern Yorke's Peninsula. I wish to record, merely as a visitor, that portion of Southern Yorke's Peninsula has the worst roads or tracks that I have experienced in 70,000 miles of motoring. How the people put up with it is beyond me! You seem to possess excellent claims for good roads, because the country I passed over, although patchy in parts, struck me as being better country than Pinnaroo district. This is only my opinion. Particularly the cleared land struck me as being capable of growing good crops and great feed. Thousands of acres await development, but no roads to it yet Inneston, or Stenhouse Bay, is only 53 miles from a fine town like Yorketown. It hardly seems right; but my sedan car bears evidence of the deplorable condition of the track from Yorketown to Inneston. I felt we had been badly advised, and that we should have taken the Corny Point Road; but after making searching enquiry, I was told this route was worse. I could not recommend anybody making the trip for pleasure. Yet at Inneston and Stenhouse Bay, pleasure await those who seek it, as along this coast delightful scenes of sea and foam of bays and rocks of rugged grandeur spread before you.
It is a fascinating part of our State, and it possesses a fascinating industry. While I was in these parts, I was forutunate enough to see something of achievement that will leave a lasting impression on all those who are prepared to risk life and limb and a motor car to go there. Way down on the "foot," industry works night and day producing "something from nothing''— who knows, who cares. It is just this, men are down there, some have been there many years, have broken the country, developed some of its natural resources. Wealth comes from the soil. I saw nearly 10,000 tons of soil shipped away, conveyed by a belt over a jetty at Stenhouse Bay — gypsum loose, and salt in bags, but most gypsum—giving work to 75 Australian families ... 75 bread-winners, the best in the world, out in nature's wonder land. At night time a myriad lights twinkle in the scrub. A diesel-engined train is hauling a line of gvpsum-filled trucks to the crusher. Another train is taking the seasoned gypsum to the great dump at the top of the cliffs. A conveyer belt, which passes over an automatic weighing machine, loads it right into the hold of a Japanese oilburning freighter made fast to a jetty. The "Jap" boat is 5,500 tons—comes direct from Auckland, gets her "fill" of gypsum (5,000 tons), and is off in 2 days. Do our politicians know this? Do they care? There's no road to Inneston or Stenhouse Bay or PondoIowie Bay, but there are men down there—real men—happy homes. 1 can hear the ripple of those conveyer belts on a starry night, and the clink and bang of gypsum trucks. I think ' of those men—if one got crushed— 50 miles to the Yorketown Hospital in less than one hour on a ROAD. But now it is more than likely that he would die before they could get him to hospital treatment. Bumping over th. ">se tracks is really terrible . . . swishing, swaying, risking head-011 collision, it took me 2.5 hours, and I was thankful for the knees on my car.
Does the Government want industries in this State? Do they know of Mr. Stanley Innes and the Waratah Gypsum Pty. Ltd? Do they know there are MEN' down there?" What would the present Government offer if this industry was just about to commence—spend, say, £150,000 and employ 75 men, work 3 shifts, and house its work people? Would the Government recognise its worth to the State? Would it offer them a road? I think your readers should ask these questions, and ask the Government whether it is in favor of decentralisation. Invite the Premier and "live" members to go down and look the place over. Mr. Innes has been at Inneston for 22 years. He has deserved a road and recognition for a long time. He has done a great job of work and manager well without a road, but it must not be left at that. It is up to your readers. I suggest they "moan" so loudly that they will be heard in Adelaide. Yours, etc.,
CALEB BURTON.
16 Glen Avenue, Unley Park.
WHY STENHOUSE BAY WANTS A GOOD ROAD.
Thursday 14 April 1938, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
We have obtained the following particulars from Mr. Stan Innes, manager of the Waratah Gypsum Proprietary Ltd., at Stenhousc Bay:— The number of residents in this locality are 200, and there are 90 men employed at the Waratah Gypsum Works. The approximate amount laid out by the Company for jetties, tramways, plant and machinery is £135,000. The volume of production during the last twelve months was 115,000 tons of gypsum, and 10,000 tons of salt, and the value of production amounted to £88.115. The approximate lengths of roads required are: No. 1. 55/32 miles, via Corney Point Road to Warooka (present mail route); No. 2, 47/40 miles via White Hut Road to Warooka: No. 3, 52/44 miles, via Sandy Point Road to Yorketown. The present works have existed in this locality for a period of 23 years, and have increased their production from 5,<XK> tons yearly to 125.000. In case of sickness or accident in this locality, the Yorketown doctor has to be summoned, and has to travel over 46 miles of bush track, which is mostly hidden by over-grown bush, and consists of numerous bends, which are dangerojus to approaching vehicles. Any patients that are able to travel for medical assistance have to be conveyed to Yorketown Hospital, which is the nearest one available. (.Twice during the last month, injured men have been brought to Yorkelown over these vile roads—see report of last Saturday's accident.— Editor.) There are three mails weekly to Stenhouse Bay, thence to Warooka, via Corney Point. There are 30 registered car owners, and 7 registered motorbike owners in the district and at least 150 tourists and camping parties frequent this part yearlv, using the three routes. Numerous travellers, representing different firms make monthly trips, and lour tradespeople do two trips weekly with meat, bread, drapery, and vegetables.
STENHOUSE BAY. Mothers' Welfare Club.
Friday 3 June 1938, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
A meeting was held in the Stenhouse Bay schoolroom to form a Mothers' Welfare Club. Mrs. D. Warren was elected as President and Mrs. C. W. Emmel as Secretary and Treasurer. It was decided to hold meetings on the first Tuesday in each month. At the first meeting there was a very good gathering of ladies, who thoroughly appreciated the dainty afternoon tea. Miss A. Vigar, a visitor from the Warooka Club, won the competition. Resolved to invite the Inneston mothers to the next meeting.
STENHOUSE BAY. STEAMER AGROUND AT STENHOUSE BAY.
Friday 11 November 1938, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
About 11 p.m. on Saturday the steamer Lowana in charge of Capt Donaldson, struck a small sand bank soon after she cast off from the jetty at Stenliouse Bay. It was blowing a fairly stiff easterly breeze as the vessel, fully loaded with salt and gypsum, drifted on the bank about 100 feet from the jetty. A small motor boat, manned by by Messrs. Morton, Mathews and C. Lloyd, had great difficulty in reaching the steamer. In fact, they had a dangerous job, as the huge waves were breaking along the full length of the vessel. The boatmen were well saturated before their unenviable task was completed. They successfully brought a line from the stern of the steamer to the jetty. Captain Donaldson kept the Lowana's propellor in motion, and with strong winches attempted to haul the big vessel sternwards. This not proving successful, and with the wind gradually increasing in strength, he fired a landing line to the shore, with the idea of running a line from the bow. The rocket, carrying a light line, soared over the conveyer on the jetty and landed on the shore—in the course of its journey fell on the electric light wires and put the jetty in darkness. This was soon remedied and the line secured and taken to the sea end of the jetty, where half-a-dozen men, in charge of the Manager, Mr. S. Innes, hauled in a heavy hawser and fixed it to the mooring bollard. With winches working on both bow and stern lines the vessel slowly came off the bank, and shortly after 2 a.m. was heading for the open sea The Lowana had on board 4500 tons of gypsum and 300 tons of salt.
CRICKET. CAPE SPENCER CRICKET ASSOCIATION. STENHOUSE BAY v. INNESTON. Played at Inneaton, 4/3/39. STENHOUSE BAY. First Innings.
Friday 24 March 1939, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954), Trove
S. Slow, b. R. Hoile 6 C. Edwards, l.b.w., b. L. Wilson .... 0 F. Love, c. and 1>. L. Wilson 4 H. Hoile, c. K. Hoile. b. L. Wilson 1 J. Jackson, b. R. Hoile 0 G. Van Staveren, run out 2 W. Emmcl, c. D. Wilson, b. L. Wilson 4 K. Nelson, b. L. Wilson 7 V. Edwards, c. R. Hoile. b. W. Hoile 0 W. Fitzpatrick. I). L. Wilson 0 K. Llovd, nol out 1 Sundries 4 Total 29 Bowling.—K. Hoik-. 2 for 10; W. Hoik-. 1 for I : L. Wilson, <> for 14.
INNESTON First Innings. R. Hoik-, c. (j. Van Staveren. 1». F. Love 8 L. Hughes, c. S. Slow. I>. C. Edwards 19 T. Hughes, c. S. Slow. I). F. Love .... 0 W. Hoile, 1». J. Jackson 3 C. Lukeman, c. Fitzpatrick, l>. Love 9 li. Wilson, b. F. Love 23 L. Wilson, !>. S. Slow 0 J. Cowled. I>. F. Love 0 P. Huhncr. c. and h. S. Sl«>w 7 K. Sabey. not out 0 I'. Lloyd, run out 0 Sundries 6 Total 75 Howling.—J. Jackson. \ {or 26: C. Edwards, 1 for 2fr, F. Love. 5 for 12; S. Slow. 2 for 5.
STENHOUSE BAY. Second liming-. S. Slow, r L Hugh». h. L. Wil-'.n 8 C. Edwards, h. R. Hoile A F. Love. c. W. Hoile. 1.. R. Hoik- .. 25 H. Hoile. 1). W. Hoile 7 J. JackMni. not out 18 G. Van Staveren, c. and b. K. Hoile 4 W. Funnel, b. L. Wilson 5 K. Nelson, b. L. Wilson 0 V. Edwards, run out .... 0 W. Fitzpatrick, h. R. Hoik-0 K. Lloyd, run out (I Sundries 20 Total 91 Howl inn—R. Hoile. 4 tor 40: L. Wilson. 3 l'or 17; W. Hoik-. 1 for 13.
INNESTON. Second Innings. L. Hughes. C. Slow, but C. Edwards 0 R. Hoile. b. L lack-M-n 10 I). Wilson, c. K Nelson. b. C. Edwards .... .... 0 T. Hughes, I.. C Edwards 0 W. Hoile. r. F. Love, b. Edwards .... 8 C. Lukeman, stp.. b. Edwards 22 L. Wilson, e. F. Love. h. Edwards 0 J. Cowled, I). Kd wards 0 P. Huliner. b. Edwards 0 K. Sabev. not out 0 P. Lloyd, c. F. Love. b. Kdwardj. „ 1 Sundries 0 Total 41 Rowling.—C. Edwards, 0 for 19 (bat trick); J. Jackson, 1 for 22.
Golf at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 7 July 1939, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
In very pleasant conditions, the Inneston golf season was officially opened by Mr. W. Koennecke, of Warooka, recently the course, which is a little under three miles in length for 18 holes, is in a picturesque setting, and represents a transformation of acres of impenetrable scrub, with winding waggon-wheel tracks— a familiar sight during the early days of the settlement.
About fifty people heard the Chairman of the Cape Spencer Recreation Club, (Mr. O. H. Cowled, junr.) welcome Mr. Koennecke, and, in reply, this very popular gentleman made a very witty speech, interspersed with good-natured sallies at his host and hostess (Mr. and Mrs. S. Innes). After mentioning the fact that the links appeared to be in a very good condition, under the prevailing circumstances, Mr. Koennecke declared the golf season open, and then played a well-judged iron shot, the ball fulling a little to the left of the first green.
A foursomes handicap tournamont was then played, the winners being Messrs. M. Campbell and D. Bird. This tournament was played over nine holes, and the best score off the stick was recorded by Mrs. H. Nelson aud Mr. E. Lange, who showed a card of 44.
Afternoon tea terminated a very enjoyable day's golf. On the King's Birthday, an 18-hole handicap tournament was held, in somewhat windy and threatening weather. Mrs. W. Emmel won the ladies' section, and Messrs. D. Bird and L. Wilson tied in the men's section. Mesdames E. Slow and H. Nelson shared the houours for the best score off the stick in the ladies' section with 93 each, and L. Wilson led the men with a total of 64. Another handicap tournament was hold on June 18, Mr. Bert Hoile and Miss Valda Sobey winning the men's and ladies' section respectively. On this occasion the best score off the stick for the 18 holes was recorded by Mrs. S. Innes, who went arouud in 101, and Mr. E. Lange led the men with a score of 90.
Whales at Stenhouse.
Friday 25 August 1939, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Last week three whales were noticed near Stenhouse Bay. They could be seen quite easily from the jetty. A few days previously two whales, one estimated at 70 feet in length, were sighted in the bay at Wallaroo. It was on a Sunday morning about 10 o'clock. They came quite close to Price's Jetty, where, says the "Kadina and Wallaroo Times," they gambolled around, seemingly quite happy and contented, sometimes being completely submerged and then again coming to the surface to blow. They stayed around the vicinity of the jetty until about 6 o'clock in the evening, when they left, seemingly headed for the West Coast. A good while ago, and at this time of the year, a large whale was seen at Wallaroo, and eventually it went further up the gulf and was stranded at Port Augusta, where enterprising people turned it to good account by extracting the available blubber and oil.
INNESTON Mothers Club Evening.
Friday 1 December 1939, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Stenhouse Bay Mothers' Club was recently responsible for a very enjoyable evening held in the Inneston Institute. A number of novelty dances were held, and renditions were given by local artists, namely, Mr. M. Baddack (vocal solo) with Mrs. R. Morton as accompanist, Miss Peggy Kenncwell (tap-dance to the mouth-organ accompaniment of Mr, W. Fitzpatriek), Mr P. Trimper (mouth organ selections), Miss Daphne and Gwen Hickman (vocal duet) with Mrs. G. Jaehne as accompanist, Mr. K. Lloyd (vocal solo) with Mrs. R. R. Morton as pianist, and Messrs. J. W. Jackson and M. Campbell (vocal duet).
The most outstanding feature of the evening was an exhibition of cycling on rollers, given by Mr. W. Fitzpatrick for a period of ten minutes. A guessing competition was held prior to the performance to estimate the mileage rocorded during the ten minutes, and Mr. M. Walker was fortunate enough to be in complete-agreement with the speedometer which showed five miles at the proscribed time.
The local musicians wore well to tho fore, variety being added to the music by an occasional combination of cornet (played bv Mr T. W. Jackson), drums (W. Fitzpatrick), and piano (Mrs. R. Morton). Mr. C. Kennewell also helped the dances '"to go with a swing" by piatioaccordion melodies mid was ably assisted by Mr. W. Tiimper.
A very enjoyable supper added another touch to very happy night. Mr W. Fitzpatrick was the Master of Ceremonies.
School Changes.
Friday 3 January 1941, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Mr. N. Slater has been appointed to the Port Clinton School. He is now at Wilson, and wa.s formerly at Bublacowie. Mr. N. Weber, of Inneston, has been appointed to Hindmarsli Island and Mr. M. Campbell, of Stenhouse Bay, goes to Moorowie School.
FATAL ACCIDENT AT STENHOUSE BAY
Friday 9 March 1945, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Whilst working on a salt stack at the Waratah Gypsum Works at Stenhouse Bay, Mr Gordon Clifford Phillips, an employe of the Company, met his death early on Wednesday morning. Mr Phillips was engaged in breaking down a heap of salt with a pick, in preparation for washing when a large portion of the heap, about five tons, collapsed on him. Death was almost instantaneous. The deceased, who was only 48 years of age, leaves a widow to mourn her loss. The burial service was conducted at Pink Lake by the Rev. J. M. G. Gent. A Coroner's enquiry was opened on Thursday, and adjourned to April 12th. Mrs B. L. Till, of Yorketown, celebrated her 89th birthday on Tuesday, March 6th. Mrs Till, who is still able to attend to ber own domestic duties, was the recipient of numerous congratulatory messages.
Inquest At Yorketown.
Friday 13 April 1945, Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove
YORKETOWN. April 12. The adjourned inquest into the death of Gorton Clifford Phillips, late of Stenhouse Bay, employed by the Waratah Gypsum Co.. was continued today. Phillips was killed by a fall of salt on March 7. at the work of the company at Stenhouse Bay.
The Coroner Mr. E. Llyod gave a flnding of accidental death. The injuries, he said, were caused by a fall of salt, which was in a solidified form.
The Coroner added that no blame was attributable to any fellow employe or to the management of the company.
STENHOUSE BAY.
Thursday 1 July 1948, Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove
— With its new treatment plant under construction about a mile from the jetty at Stenhonse Bay, Waratah Gypsum Pty. Ltd. aims to double its output of 100,000 tons yearly.
If this target is achieved, it will go a long way towards meeting the extremely heavy Australian and New Zealand demand for the Stenhouse Bay product, which is used mainly for the manufacture of plaster for building purposes.
Hand in hand with its production expansion programme, the company is improving the living conditions of its 60 employes and their families. Seven new houses have been built here recently, and another is under construction.
OBITUARY.
Friday 20 August 1948, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Whilst working at a gypsum bin at Stenhouse Bay on Friday last, William Ernest Edwards, 61, an employee of the Waratah Gypsum Company, was buried by a fall of crushed gypsum. Despite every effort by workmates, the body was not recovered until about an hour later. Death was due to suffication. Deceased was a highly respected resident of Inneston, where he had resided for a number of years. A wife and three sons survive. The burial service at Pink Lake was conducted by Rev. S. H. Farmer A report has been submitted to the Coroner, Mr. E. E. Lloyd, J, P., bv M. C. Richardson, of Yorketown. An inquest will be held on a date to be fixed.
CORONER'S INQUEST.
Friday 24 September 1948, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The enquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident at Stenhouse Hay on August 13 th last which resulted in the death of William Ernest Edwards, was held at Yorketown on Wednesday. A number of witnesses gave evidence of events at the time of the accident. It was stated that a routine order instructed employes not to enter the bins, where the accident occurred, while winches were in operation.
In summing up, the Coroner (Mr E. E. Lloyd, J.P.) said, "I find that the deceased was William Ernest Edwards, aged 61 years, late of Inneston. Deceased came to his death at Stenhouse Bay on the 13th day of August, 1948, from suffocation, when he was buried by gypsum in the loading bin of the Waratah Gypsum Proprietary Limited." where he was employed—the gypsum moving down the bin and engulfing the deceased. Upon the evidence before me I find no negligence on the part of the Waratah Gypsum Proprietary Limited."
The Coroner added a rider: "In my opinion, life lines should be provided by the Company for the employes."
[We understand that three life lines have been provided at the bins since the accident.—Ed.
Boy Drowned at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 21 January 1949, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Robert Mathews, 10, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. Mathews, accidentally met his death at Stenhouse Bay on Thursday morning. Mathews and another lad, Hughes, were playing in a tin canoe when it capsized. Mathews, a poor swimmer, got out of his depth and was drowned. Artificial respiration was applied without avail.
BOY DROWNED IN CANOE ACCIDENT
Saturday 22 January 1949, Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove
Rescue Effort By 12-Year-Old Robert Charles Mathews, 10, was drowned at Stenhouse Bay on Thursday when he jumped from his canoe after it had developed a leak. It is believed that the boy became alarmed when the canoe began to leak and jumped into about 10 feet of water 20 yards from the shore. He appeared to be caught in an undercurrent and dragged under. Wilfred Hughes, aged 12, swam to the rescue, but Mathews by this time had swallowed so much water that he was unable to hold on to his rescuer, and Hughes eventually became exhausted. The body was later recovered with grappling irons from a launch.
Medals For S.A. Schoolboys.
Thursday 24 November 1949, Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove
Three SA schoolboys will receive Royal Humane Society awards for bravery, announced in a supplementary list supplied by the town clerk (Mr. W. C. D. Veale) who is the society's honorary correspondent for SA.
He announced the award of a bronze medal to Wilfred Lawrence Hughes, 12, of Stenhouse Bay, for attempting to rescue Robert Charles Mathews from drowning at Stenhouse Bay on January 20.
Certificates of merit had also been awarded to 13-year-old William Stuart McLoughlin, of Glenelg, for rescuing Christopher Goodes from drowning at Glenelg on February 10, and to Brian John Sullivan, 11, of Brompton, for attempting to rescue Adriano De Zen from drowning in the River Torrens, Welland, on September 20.
New Australian Found Shot
Wednesday 28 December 1949, Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) Trove
YORKETOWN, Dec. 27. Juozas Abaravicius, a Lithuanian, was found with gun shot wounds in his head and a rifle between his legs at the back door of a guest house at Stenhouse Bay, at 5 pm, on Christmas Day. He He died in the Southern Yorke Peninsula Hospital at 6.30 pm. yesterday. Abaravicius arrived in Australia in 1948 and joined the Waratah Gypsum Co. early this year. He had spent some time in a German concentration camp during the war. The Coroner (Mr. E. Lloyd) deemed an inquest unnecessary.
Man Found Shot at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 13 January 1950, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
At about 5pm on Christmas Day a man, Juozas Abaravicius, was found in the back yard of Mrs A. W. Walker's boarding house. Stenhouse Bay, with two bullet wounds in the left side of face and head. The wounds had been self inflicted with a 303 rifie Mr David H. Parry. Clerk. of Stenhouse Bay, who found the man, dressed the wounds and applied pressure bandages Dr. L L. Haare. locum tonens for Dr Watson, and MC Baker, from Yorketown, were contacted and hastened to Stenhouse Bay, accomplishing the journey 1? hours. They conveyed the man to the S.Y.P Hospital where he died of his injuries at 6 30 pm. on December 26th.
Abaravicius, a Lithuanian 20 years of age, who had arrived in Australia in April 1948 had been employed by Waratah Gypsum Co at Sterhouse Bay since last July, and was popular in the locality It is believed that he had been an inmate of a German concentration camp during the war.
M.C. Baker furnished a report to the coroner Mr. E. E. Lloyd who found as follows. "Having perused the attached statement. I deem an inquest unnecessary and issue a certificate accordingly. My reason for coming to this decision is that I am satisfied that there are no suspicious circumstances connected with the death. I am of the opinion that death was due to injury to the brain, and shock caused by rifle bullet wounds self-inflicted at the home of Mrs. A. W. Walker, Stenhouse Bay, at about 5 p.m. on December 25th."
STENHOUSE BAY.
Saturday 14 January 1950, Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1954) Trove
DEAR Possum.— I have been staying down at Stenhouse Bay where my uncle and aunt live.
It isn't a very big place, the men work at the gypsum works. There is a medium-sized jetty where the boats come in and take the gypsum away. My cousins and I often went for walks to find wildflowers, and quite frequently saw kangaroos bounding away in the distance. My brothers, sisters, and I have some new pets. They are two white rabbits, a grey and white one, and a black one. We also have a galah and a magpie. We had two cats, but one was shot by rabbiters and the other caught a disease and died. Betty Lloyd (15) , . Clinton Centre.— pink Certificate.
ROUGH SEAS FORCE SHIP FROM STENHOUSE BAY.
Friday 17 August 1951, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The M.V. "Union Trader," which last week loaded gypsum at Stenhouse Bay, was forced to leave the jetty before it had finished loading by heavy seas, which buffetted her and endangered both ship and jetty.
Rather than return to New Zealand part loaded, she paid an unscheduled cell to Edithburgh, whrre she took on additional cargo in the form of salt.
The "Union Trader' is one of thirty ships built by the Consolidated Steel Corporation in U.S.A.. in 1945, and was previously registered as the "Hickory Burn" while under charter to the British Government during the war and shortly after. She visited Sydney with her sister ship "Hickory Glen" late in 1945.
The M.V. "Hans P. Carl," a Norwegian vessel paying her first visit to waters, was piloted to Stenhouse Bay on Saturday lnst by Captain Baker, who earlier had taken the "Union Trader out.
OBITUARY.
Friday 18 January 1952, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Mr. William Carl Emmel, of Stenhouse Bay, died at the S.Y.P. Hospital on Saturday last. The deceased who was 62 years of age was a returned soldier of World War I where in he served with the Third Light Horse.
He is survived by wife and a son, Jack. After a short service at the Yorketown Methodist Church on Sunday afternoon, the remains were interred at Pink Lake Cem etery. The Rev. M. D. Giles conducted the service.
LOSES FINGERTIP ON EMERY WHEEL.
Friday 18 July 1952, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
M. J. Bird, of Stenhouse Bay, lost part of a finger on is right hand when it was jammed between a steel bar and an emery wheel early his week. The finger which was severed a little below the top knuckle, was caught when the bar suddenly prang away from and back to the wheel.
New Conveyor Belt at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 15 August 1952, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Waratah Gypsum Company is installing a 24 inch conveyor belt from the gypsum stockpile to the jetty at Stenhouse Bay to save carting and the expensive upkeep of the trucks. It will also save double handling of the gypsum, and do away with the 4,000 ton storage bin which is now used.
Two sections of the timberwork for the conveyor belt are in position, another three sections have to be erected. It is expected that the belt will be finished in about twelve month's time, and that it will simplify the task of handling a very much finer and stickier type of gypsum.
Ship Aground at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 20 March 1953, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
With a 4,000 ton cargo of gypsum aboard, the Commonwealth Line ship, the "Carcoola" was stuck hard and fast on a sandbar at Stenhouse Bay yesterday, and Wednesday.
The Carcoola of 3,295 tons gross, was moving out from the jetty, bound for Melbourne, with the wind and tide against her when she struck the sand bar about 170 feet from the shore at 10 a.m. on Wednesday morning. The last line to the jetty had just been cast off when she struck.
An attempt was made at high tide to move her under assistance of ropes on the mooring chains, but the attempt failed.
The tug Foremost was summoned from Port Adelaide yesterday afternoon and made another attempt to move her at high tide.
At the time of going to press no report was available on the success of the attempt.
Second Ship Aground at Stenhouse Bay.
Friday 27 March 1953, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
With 4,050 tons of gypsum aboard, the "Kooralia" ran aground on the sand bar at a Stenhouse Bay at 3 a.m. on Wednesday morning.
The Kooralia is the second at ship to foul the bar in the last fortnight, the Carcoola having struck last week.
She was refloated at high tide on Wednesday afternoon and reberthed at the wharf. It is believed a considerable amount of sand was taken in through the injectors, and to prevent the a possibility of her being caught on the bar again, the assistance of a tug from Port Adelaide was called.
A strong South Easterly wind has been blowing and rough seas have added to the difficulties. With the arrival of the tug Wednesday night, it was found too rough for rescue operations, and the tug proceeded to Marion Bay for shelter.
Yesterday morning the tug returned but the wind and high seas still prevented her from coming in. A report received last night said that the weather was quietening a little, and as soon as a line could be thrown abroard, the Koolalia would be towed out to the open sea.
Stenhouse Bay Quiet.
Friday 19 June 1953, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
More than 25 inches of rain has been received at Stenhouse Bay during the past month.
The rain, coming in such a short time has made loading operations difficult at the port. Fortunately shipping has been quiet, only one ship being loaded this
The "Koolabah" loaded 4,000 tons of gypsum for Melbourne early in the week.
The New Zealand cargo ship "Koomata" is expected in next week for a shipment of gypsum for home ports. She is at present loading at Adelaide.
Road under water.
Friday 24 July 1953, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
The Warooka - Stenhouse Bay Road is under water in many places, and is being damaged by heavy traffic It is expected that with much more rain, the road will be impassable to all traffic. Many small cars are having difficulty in negotiating the stretches of water and deep holes along the route.
RAINFALL Rainfall for July, to date is three inches, compared with 2? inches for the who month last year. Falls recorded over June and July are double those registered for the two months last year.
SHIPPING The inter-state ship "Kooralya" has been standing by at the port for nearly a week, unable to berth. Strong south westerly winds and heavy swells have prevented the ship from coming in close. She has been sheltering at Edithburgh and Wedge Island, but it is expected she may berth today.
No Arrests in Stenhouse Bay Mailbag Robbery.
Friday 27 August 1954, Pioneer (Yorketown, SA : 1898 - 1954) Trove
Enquiries by police and postal authorities into the mall bag robbery at Stenhouse Bay have not yet resulted in any arrests, and investigations are continuing. Rumours that a man had been detained in connection with the robbery w«fre discounted by the Manager of Waratah Gypsum Company at Stenhouse Bay (Mr. A. F. Paynter) at the time of going to press.
News of the theft reached S.Y.P. towns on Friday morning and was the subject of street corner speculation until the rumour was confirmed by Adelaide police cars passing through Yorketown to the scene of the robbery. Local police were picked up on the way. It has been reported that a mall bag containing the Waratah Gypsum payroll, consisting of some £2,000, was taken from the temporary post office at Stenhouse Bay last Thursday night. Entrance to the post office was gained by breaking a window. The mail bag had apparently been forwarded by the Bank of Adelaide to the Waratah Gypsum Company. Included in the police party which reached Stenhouse Bay on Friday after noon, was Detective-Sergeant R. Huie, who has been in charge of investigations.