The local history collection held at Waverley Library is unique due to its local importance and national significance. Bondi is one of the most visited places in Australia and has become an international icon.

Local Studies comprises a special collection of both historical and current material relating to all aspects of the Waverley Local Government Area.

The collection includes resources that relate to geological time, Aboriginal life, post-European occupation, the natural and built environment as well as contemporary material about life in Waverley.

The majority of the local studies collection (secondary research, electoral rolls, microfiche, newspaper clippings, vertical files, newsletters, vertical files etc.) are available without an appointment.

Holdings include:

Waverley Council:

• Cemetery registers 1869-1970s
• Bondi improvement schemes 1920s-
• Reports 1960s-
• Minutes 1859-
• Correspondence 1930s-1970s
• Rate books 1883-1922

Miscellaneous:

• Bondi sewerage pollution 1880s-
• Photographs 1840s-
• Bondi Surf Life Saving Club: Minutes 1908-1962

Scrapbooks

• Major W L Johnston: Scrapbook 1880s-1920s.

For more complex enquiries you will need to make an appointment with the Local History Research and Engagement Officer, in particular any enquiry which requires access to material held in the original resources archive.  Materials housed in the archive room are not available for loan and due to their unique nature are used under staff supervision.

Contact:

Ingrid Grace
Local History Research & Engagement Officer
Phone: 9083 8744
ingrid.grace@waverley.nsw.gov.au