1926 Annual Picnic

 One of the many clubs and associations to have their annual excursion trip to Bribie in the 1920s was the Kennel Association of Queensland. Formed in 1921, the following items record their Second Annual outing to Bribie on 26 January (Foundation Day) 1926.

Annual Picnic on Bribie
1926

The Queensland Kennel Association has chartered the s.s. Koopa for a Bribie trip on January 26 (Foundation Day). The club is donating several trophies for a fishing competition which will be conducted by the A.F.A., assisted by the Paddington Club. No entry fee is to be charged, and names of intending competitors may be left with Messrs. George Shaw's depot, Edward Street, where tickets for the outing may be obtained. 

Kennel Association. Excursion to Bribie. 

The Kennel Association held its annual picnic yesterday, when the Koopa conveyed about 800 persons to Bribie. A sports programme was provided, and a fishing competition was also held.

The excursion steamer Koopa berthed at the wharf at Bribie.
From article Bribie's Spell. Health and Happiness.
The Brisbane Courier, Tue 23 Nov 1926, p. 18

The sports programme received much support from the visitors. The officials were: Messrs. F.L. South (president), R.L. Hanslow, H.G. Riley, and Stott.

The results were: Councillors’ race, I. Ham 1, Stott 2; after a dead heat. Boys under 14, C. Harrison 1, N. Tacey 2. Girls under 14, M. Pearce 1, D. Easton 2. Single ladies, M. Westphal 1, D. Easton 2. Single men’s handicap M. Gold 1, J. Wilkie 2. Married ladies’ handicap, Mrs. Swiney 1, Mrs E. Lawson 2. Married mens handicap, W. Proud 1, J. Gregory 2. Egg and spoon race for girls, E. Brown 1, M. Parkin 2. Egg and spoon race for boys, C. Smythe 1, B. Creber 2. Cigarette race, Miss M. Westphal and Mrs. Westphal. Necktie race, Mrs. Swiney and C. Smythe. 

In one of the heats, Mr. R.L. Hanslow and Mrs. G.L. Hutchinson were disqualified. Their protest, however, was upheld, and special prizes were presented to them by Mr. J.G. Riley (secretary). Mr. F.L. South distributing the prizes.

FISHING COMPETITION

The fishing competition evoked much interest, 18 persons casting their lines into the sea. Although Mr. George Patrick ran short of bait before the expiration of time, he was an easy winner with 17 fish, weighing 6 lbs. 12 ozs. One whiting weight 14 ozs., which was the heaviest individual fish. The second prize was secured by Mr. Joe Massai with four fish, weighing 1 lb. 2 ozs., while the aware for the heaviest fish (apart from the winner of the collection prize) went to Mr. T. Siggs, who landed a rainbow weighing 12 ozs. The six competitors who weighted in their hauls landed 29 fish, of a total weight of 11 lbs. 

Here is a view of the “groper king” G. Rich, with his latest
captive (the 29th), weighing 112 lb,
obtained while fishing from Bribie jetty this month.
Photograph kindly forwarded by Mr. C. Smyth.
The Daily Mail (Brisbane) Sun 24 Jan 1926 p. 9

Just prior to the Koopa leaving, a fisherman landed a blue parrot fish, weighing over 12 lbs. 

The excursionists reached the city at 7.15 p.m.

The Kennel Association's second annual picnic to Bribie on the Koopa on foundation day was a splendid all-round success, over 800 members and friends joining in the trip.

REFERENCES
Queensland Kennel Association.
Telegraph (Brisbane) 15.1.1926 p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article177843518

Kennel Association. Excursion to Bribie. 
Telegraph (Brisbane) 28.1.1926 p. 14 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article177835412

Kennel Association's second annual picnic to Bribie. 
Brisbane Courier 30.1.1926 p. 15 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21020000

PHOTO 1: The excursion steamer Koopa berthed at the wharf at Bribie. From article Bribie's Spell. Health and Happiness. The Brisbane Courier, Tue 23 Nov 1926, p. 18 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21063053 

PHOTO 2: Here is a view of the “groper king” G. Rich, with his latest captive (the 29th), weighing 112 lb, obtained while fishing from Bribie jetty this month. Photograph kindly forwarded by Mr. C. Smyth. The Daily Mail (Brisbane) Sun 24 Jan 1926 p. 9 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220622033 

FURTHER READING
The Canine Control Council, Queensland. By D.W. Armstrong. From the book titled "An Historical Record of Australian Kennel Councils", edited by H R Spira. 
https://dogsqueensland.org.au/media/1688/10351history_of_the_ccc-q.pdf 

1925 Seaside Resorts Guide

During the 1920s a popular way to visit Bribie Island was to travel there and back by the steamships Koopa or Doomba. A variation to this route, was to travel from Brisbane to Landsborough (51 miles) by a morning train, to be met by a seventeen-seater char-a-banc for conveyance to Caloundra. Next day a motor-boat trip from Caloundra to Bongaree through the Pumicestone Passage, would meet up with a steamship for the voyage back to Brisbane.

For several years, the launch 'Calbri' was operated by Andrew Tripcony (1864-1945) and conveyed excursionists through the Pumicestone Passage, as described in the following advertisements.

1925 SEASIDE RESORTS

Bribie Island 

TRAVELLING FROM BONGAREE TO CALOUNDRA THROUGH PUMICE STONE CHANNEL

Through the pioneer enterprising efforts of a Caloundra company, the launch Calibri was built and a regular motor boat service from Bribie to Caloundra through the scenic Pumice Stone Channel inaugurated. This motor boat is built on the tunnel stern principle, has a length of 36ft, beam 9ft, and only draws 8 inches of water. By this means Caloundra can be reached by a through smooth trip from Brisbane. 

The glimpses of scenery obtained during the passage through the winding channel are such that must be seen to be appreciated. 

Leaving Bribie, Toorbul Point, on the mainland, is passed; thence the old fısh-canning works. Presently an old iron hulk is viewed; then are seen what appear like fenced selections on the sea, which are really licensed oyster banks protected by this means against the enemies of the shellfısh.

Looking further northward one perceives the green-carpeted sward of the banks on which hundreds of aquatic birds, from the large pelican to small snipe, are peacefully feeding, whilst further away great flocks of black swans are gracefully swimming.

Ever and always about us are the towering peaks of the Glass House Mountains, their grey trachyte sides viewed fırst from the south-east, thence due east, and again from the north-east. By proceeding from the metropolis to Caloundra via Bribie and returning via Landsborough by rail to Brisbane, or vice versa, a splendid round trip is afforded tourists.

Scene on the
Landsborough-Caloundra Road

Good accommodation is obtainable at the hotel and boarding establishments and during the summer months it is advisable to address the proprietors some time in advance regarding the arrangements for quarters.

Means of Access

(1) Caloundra can be reached by rail to Landsborough; thence motor-car (15 miles), which connects with the North Coast morning train from Brisbane on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. At other times it is necessary to arrange with the hotel proprietor or boarding-house keepers to meet you at Landsborough. For such trips special rates are charged.

(2) Caloundra may also be reached by taking the motor launch Calibri from Bribie after the arrival of the steamship Koopa on Thursdays, and Sundays and at other special occasions during the summer months. Arrangements for this trip may also be made with Mr A.B. Tripcony, of Caloundra.

Fares.

Railway - Ordinary single: First, 9s 1d; second, 6s.

Friday till Monday excursion: First, 13s 11d; second 9s 3d.

Saturday-Sunday excursion: First, 10s 6d; second, 7s.

Motor-car from Landsborough: Single, 7s 6d; return, 15s. Special trips at special rates.

Motor launch from Bribie. Fares: Brisbane to Caloundra and Return, 30s: single. Brisbane to or from Caloundra, 12s 6d; Bribie to or from Caloundra and Return, 16s; single, Bribie to or from Caloundra, 10s. Children half fare.

Bribie Island, or Bribie, as it is more conveniently called, is reached by continuing the steamer trip in the Koopa or Doomba past Redcliffe to its furthest limits. It is 38 miles from Brisbane, and is reached after a three hours run from the city, the steamers berthing at a short, well-constructed jetty. 

Bribie Island and Moreton Island, which lies opposite at a considerable distance, form the most northern outposts of Moreton Bay. 

Bribie Island is about 20 miles long, from 2 to 3 miles broad, and is well timbered.

REFERENCES

Andrew Buchanan Tripcony (13.4.1864-12.4.1945)
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/154371052/andrew-buchanan-tripcony

See Queensland First. Glories of the North Coast. ... Landsborough. Caloundra.
Daily Standard (Brisbane) 1.4.1920 . p.8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article180956245

Mountain And Seaside Resorts From Noosa To Tweed by Queensland Government Intelligence and Tourist Bureau, 1925, pages 67-70; 97-99. https://archive.org/details/MountainAndSeasideResortsFromNoosaToTweed/page/n95/mode/2up?q=bribie

1924 Canvas boat paddle to Bribie

 The following article describes a feat of endurance from one hundred years ago, by a young man paddling from Brisbane to Bribie Island... to show he could!

1924 By Canvas Canoe from Brisbane to Bribie

A feat that is probably unique in the history of Moreton Bay has just been accomplished by an 18-year old Brisbane lad, Fred Olsen, who paddled from Brisbane to Bribie Island in an 8ft 6 in canvas canoe of his own manufacture.

Fred Olsen in his canvas canoe

The craft – well named “My Tippy Canoe,” with the accent on the “tippy” – is a foot or so deep, with a beam of 26in, and the voyage took a little over three days. Provisions for the journey comprised Sardines, fairy cakes, oranges, eggs, and crabs.

With the exception of severe cuts on his feet from oyster shells, and being burned by the sun, the lad is none the worse for an adventure that, fortunately, turned out successfully. He only admits to having “the wind up” on one occasion, and that was when he was caught by a half gale in the middle of Deception Bay. The exploit is one that the most daring might well jib at, and, of course, “no person with any sense” would dream of attempting it. It might be just as well to remark here that Olsen undertook it without the knowledge of his people, or of any other responsible citizens.

People who know the bay, and have seen it in some of its wildest moods, may believe the feat impossible, and will tell of the size of the waves that a north-easter can beat up; and of the tide rips in the Bribie Passage; of the distance across Deception Bay, and the treacherous weather there; but the fact remains that the trip was made, and the young navigator, despite his trying experiences, squares an indignant, sunburnt jaw when anyone tries to point out to him the dangers of the venture, and that he had considerably less than an even chance of coming out of it alive.

The Great Adventure

Olsen set off a little after 9 o’clock on Wednesday (Boxing Day) morning from the top of Humbug reach, just above the Oregon mills. He was in bathing “togs,” and a pal went down to Bribie by the Koopa with a parcel of “civilized” clothing, which he left at the Bribie store for him. The whole of the first day was occupied in the trip to the mouth of the river, where the lad struck a kindly motor boat owner, who made a shakedown for him on board. The trip was resumed at 6 o’clock next morning, after a breakfast of fairy cakes and sardines, and Sandgate was reached at midday. Woody Point was the next port of call, and there the lad spent the night, sleeping in the sand under the lee of an upturned canoe.

A Strenuous Morning

Next morning (Friday) the wind was fresh, and Olsen experienced considerable difficulty in keeping the canoe afloat. Eventually, after a strenuous morning, Scarborough was reached, but the size of the waves made it impossible to launch the canoe again. It was leaking a good deal owing to the canvas under the keel having worn through at both ends, where it had scraped on sandbanks and rocks. With some carpet tacks, obtained from a nearby resident, a tin of black enamel and a rock, temporary repairs were effected, after which the canoe was portaged across Scarborough Point into Deception Bay, where the water appeared to be comparatively calm.

Olsen decided to take a risk and cut straight across the bay to Toorbul Point. It was a risk that nearly ended the cruise. When he was about a third of the way across, the breeze freshened considerably, and soon whipped the heavy swell into rollers that started to curl and break. For a while he struggled to keep his frail craft bow on to the combers, but they broke over it, and he shipped a good deal of water. He could make no progress against the wind, and several times a breaking waves almost swamped him.

Canoe half swamped

There was nothing for it but to make for shore, and at infinite risk he turned the canoe round. The prospect was enough to appall the stoutest heart. A blur on either side and in front, low down on the water, was all he could see of the land. It represented the line of trees fringing the beach, he knew, but the trees were not distinguishable. White horses were racing all around, threatening to break aboard at any moment, and there was a good deal of water in the canoe. Going before the wind, he made fair progress, and little water came aboard, though he experienced the utmost difficulty in preventing the canoe from turning broadside on. His arms ached, and his whole body was stiff with the continual strain of balancing his cockle-shell of a craft, but he dared not cease paddling. After what seem hours, he thankfully ran ashore. A brief rest, and the lad set off along the edge of the water, towing the canoe, while he ate two cook crabs (which a holiday amateur fisherman had given him at Scarborough), and four ores. The tide was out, and he was walking along the sandbanks, about half a mile from the beach.

Commissariat Lost

He trudged along for a couple of hours in the dark, with only the wailing of a curlew and the distant lights of Bribie to cheer him up. Once his foot sank into a depression in the sand, and a stingaree splashed away. It “put the wind up” him for a while, and when a light showed on the shore he left all his gear on the sand, and made towards the light, with the canoe on his shoulder.

Fred Olsen carrying his canvas canoe

It weighs the better part of half a cwt (~45 kg), so his walk over the sands can be better imagined than described. To crown all, when he at length reached the beach, he found that the light was a mile or so away, up on a hill. Utterly disheartened, he again made for the water’s edge, but an hour’s search failed to reveal the condensed milk and other possessions he had left there, and when he nearly lost the canoe, too, he gave up, and paddled on towards the few lights of Bribie that still remained. At last the moon rose, and by its light he made better progress, though every now and again he get out and push the canoe off a sandbank.

Feet cut by oysters

Eventually he came to Cook’s Rocks, where, in attempting to get round, he ran aground again. The rocks were covered with oysters, which cut his feet badly when he got out to free the canoe, and for the next quarter of an hour he had perhaps the most unenviable experience of the whole night. He reached Toorbul Point, and beached the canoe opposite Bribie jetty about midnight. There was still a fresh wind blowing, and the sea was rough. The currents in the passage were swirling, and he did not dare to attempt to cross over. There was nothing for it but to camp on the beach, so he drew the canoe well up, and with his last two dry matches started a fire, which, however, soon went out for lack of dry fuel. Dead tired, the lad dug a hole in the sand, and, despite the sandflies, went to sleep, though he awoke several times during the night with nightmares.

The End of the Trip

At daylight the next morning (Saturday) the passage was calm, so he crossed over to Bribie. At this point the passage is rather more than half a mile in width, but he negotiated it safely, and the end of the long trip from Brisbane ended about 6 o’clock.

The hero of the exploit bought a bottle of lemonade and a one pound block of cake, which he had for breakfast; then he collected his clothes from the store. During the day nearly everyone in Bribie was anxious to have a trip in the canoe that had come from Brisbane, but they found it very difficult to balance, and most of them capsized. In the evening Olsen went to a concert and dance, getting to bed about midnight.

On Sunday he came up to Brisbane by the Koopa, bringing the canoe with him. It is minus a good deal of paint where it had scraped against sand and rocks, but is otherwise in good condition.

The Canoe described

The canoe was built a bit at a time in odd moments from pieces of scrap timber. The keel is a piece of 8ft 6in long by about an inch and a half square. The gunwales are light, about 10ft by 1 ½ inch by ½ inch. Instead of ribs, there are two solid wooden shapes, ¾ inch thick, placed 2ft 6in and 2ft from the bow and stern, respectively. These form a well 4ft long, in which the occupant sits. The portions of the top outside the well are covered. There is one rib of 1in. by ¼ in. pine in the centre of the well, and there are five “stringers,” or ribs, from stem to stern, of the same dimensions, on each side. Over this framework, light duck of good quality is stretched, and given two coasts of white paint. As yet there is no floor in it, and the paddler sits on the keel.

The finished article is a canoe that is rather heavy for its size, and very hard to balance, though a 3 in. false keel along the bottom helps. It is a good craft for fun in the river, but is not one for rough water or for a trip of any length. A double-ended paddle is used, and is a great help in balancing the canoe.

REFERENCES

By Canvas Canoe from Brisbane to Bribie - text and images. Via Trove
The Daily Mail, Sun 13 Jan 1924 p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article217636105

Trove - National Library of Australia online repository for early Australian newspapers. Trove is a collaboration between the National Library of Australia and hundreds of Partner organisations around Australia. https://trove.nla.gov.au/

1921 Annual Outing to Bribie

The following description of a social outing for members of the Queensland Colliery Proprietors' Council is illustrated with the programme from the day. This memento of the day, kept by Mr James Schroder Campbell, was recently donated to BIHS.

Colliery Proprietors' Council

Second Annual Outing to Bribie

aboard the Koopa, July 7, 1921

Programme of Second Annual Outing to Bribie, 7 July 1921
Courtesy James Schroder Campbell collection

The members of the Queensland Colliery Proprietors' Council held their second annual outing last Thursday to Bribie on the Koopa.  Those present included Messrs. M.W. Haenke, president (Rhondda, Balgowan, and Westvale Colliers), W.B. Darker, vice-president (Stafford Bros.), J.F. Walker, treasurer (Walker and Co. and New Auerdare Colliery, Ltd.), W. Binnie (H.G. Noble, Ltd.), G.H. Collin (Newcastle, Rhondda, and Westvale Collieries), V.W. Croston (Bonnie Dundee Coal Co., Ltd.), S.W. Dunstan (Blackheath Collieries), D. Gibbins (Noblevale Collieries), J.F. Hall (Newcastle, Glencoe, and Torbanlea Collieries), J.W. Hetherington (Blair Athol Collieries and Hetherington and Rylance, Ltd.), W. Jones (Rhondda and Westvale Collieries), R. McQueen (W. McQueen and Co., Ltd.), R. Smith (Boxflat and Parkhead Collieries), D. Stafford (Rothwell, Haigh, and Whitwood Collieries), J.H. Wright (J. Wright and Co., Tivoli and Oakey), W. Thomas (acting secretary to the council). Messrs. J. Barrowman and F.C. Wright (president and hon. secretary respectively of the Mine Managers and Colliery Engineers’ Association) were present as the guests of the council.

Menu and Toast List
Courtesy James Schroder Campbell collection

On arrival at Bribie an excellent luncheon was provided in the dining saloon of the Koopa.  The party stood for a few moments in silence as a tribute to the late Mr. R.A. Cleghorn, whose services had been of inestimable value to the industry during the period in which he had acted as secretary and advocate in the interests of the proprietors.  

The following toasts were honoured: "The King," proposed by the president; "The Industry," by Messrs. W.B. Darker and J.F. Hall, replies being made by Messrs. J.F. Walker and W. Binnies; "The Mine Managers' Association," by J.W. Hetherington, Mr. J. Barrowman replying; and "The Council," by Mr. G.W. Collin, the president responding.  

Every speaker drew attention to the need for conserving the coal supply, and to the world-wide necessity for the prevention of waste in the utilisation of our coal resources.  Emphasis was also laid upon the necessity for even closer co-operation and unity amongst the employers than had existed in the past.  A tribute was paid to Alderman J.W. Hetherington, aptly termed "the father of the coal industry," for his efforts on behalf of the colliery proprietors in Queensland.  

After a pleasant return trip the president entertained all who were able to be present at His Majesty's Theatre. 

REFERENCES

Colliery Proprietors' Council Outing.
The Brisbane Courier, Sat 9 Jul 1921, p. 9, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20512039

Programme of Second Annual Outing to Bribie, 7 July 1921.
two leaves folded. Courtesy of James Schroder Campbell collection, BIHS.

FURTHER READING

Whitmore, R.L. (1989) John Hetherington, Father of Queensland's Coal Industry. Presented at a meeting of the Royal Historical of Queensland, 23 February 1989.
Journal of the Royal Historical Society of Queensland 13 (12) 445-461. https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:205781

Obituary Mr J.W. Hetherington. 
The Queenslander, Thu 18 Jul 1929, p. 17 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article22915343 

1925 Social outing to Bribie

The following description of a social outing for members of two Brisbane timber associations is illustrated with the programme from the day which was printed on "Stanply" wooden tablets. This memento of the day, kept by Mr James Schroder Campbell, was recently donated to BIHS. 

Timber Trade. Annual outing to Bribie. 1925  

The annual outing of the members of the Brisbane Timber Merchants' Association and Brisbane and District Joinery Association and their wives and guests took place to Bribie Island on Wednesday.  

Doomba at the Bongaree Jetty (1924)
Photo: Caboolture Shire Council
Repository: Moreton Bay Libraries 

Luncheon was served on the Doomba, presided over by the respective presidents of the Brisbane Timber Merchants' Association (Mr. Wm. Patterson), and the Brisbane and District Joinery Association (Mr. W. Blackband). 

Programme of Social Outing to Bribie Island 25 November 1925
printed on "Stanply"wooden tablets 
Courtesy James Schroder Campbell collection

In proposing the toast of “The Day We Celebrate,” Mr Patterson said that they would like to see the association taking a more practical interest, in matters pertaining to afforestation, by an effort to promote a scheme for growing softwoods within a reasonable distance of the cities, so that future generations would be able to draw their supplied from areas handy to railways, in proximity to good roads. They had come through a strenuous and eventful period. During the early part of the year trade was slack, causing very keen competition, and on the other hand, they had increased costs to contend with, which made it very difficult to carry on their business successfully. As the year advanced there was a slight improvement in the volume of business but the extra overhead costs and shortage of pine supplies had added to their difficulties. 

The question of pine supplies was a very urgent one, as the industry was dependent upon the Forestry Department to a great extent. The shortage might be relieved by opening up more timber areas either by tramlines, or by making good, serviceable roads. ... During the year they were faced with the proposed Child Endowment Scheme, which would not have come into force before the middle of next year. Members were favourably inclined towards the principle of this form of assistance to workers, provided that the added cost could be recovered. Unfortunately, owing to force of circumstances, the Government had to abandon this Bill, and, instead, granted an increase of the basic wage at a moment’s notice, which did not give members any chance of providing against the added burden. 

Menu and Toast List
printed on "Stanply"wooden tablets 
Courtesy James Schroder Campbell collection

Responses made by Mr George Brown and Mr C.H. Bromily (country sawmillers), Mr W. Blackband, the vice-chairman, proposed the toast of "Our Guests," coupling with his toast the names of Mr F.J. Morrgan (National Bank of Australia, Ltd.), F.H.F. Swain (chairman, Provision Forestry Board), J.V.D. Coutts (Queensland Institute of Architects), M. Doggett (Queensland Master Builders’ Association), and Mr J. Hood (Suburban Master Builders’ Association), Mr F.J. Morgan, of the National Banks of Australasia, Ltd., responded.  

Mr E.H.F. Swain responded on behalf of the Provisional Forestry Board. The representatives of the Queensland Master Builders’ Association (Mr Doggett) and Suburban Master Builders’ (Mr Hood)... .

The toast of the ladies, proposed by Mr J.F. Brett, was acknowledged by Mrs J. Henry Hancock, on behalf of the ladies present.

In proposing the toast of the "newly-elected presidents of the respective associations," Mr. C.W. Campbell paid a tribute to Mr. Wm. Patterson and Mr. W. Blackband, two gentlemen who were held in very high esteem, both for their personal worth and for their devotion to the welfare of the timber industry in general, and the members of the association in particular.  

The toast of the Press was proposed by Mr F.O. Nixon, and acknowledged by Mr J.V.D. Coutts and Mr McCorquodale, on behalf of their respective journals.

On the return of the Doomba to Circular Quay, about 8 p.m., expressions on all sides testified to a very pleasant day's outing having been spent. 

REFERENCES

Timber Trade. Annual outing to Bribie.
The Brisbane Courier 28.11.1925 p. 9  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20981480

Photo - Doomba at the Bongaree Jetty (1924) 
Moreton Bay Our Story, accessed 20/10/2024, https://ourstory.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/nodes/view/30551

Programme of Social Outing to Bribie Island 25 November 1925.
four leaves printed on "Stanply" wooden tablets.
Courtesy of James Schroder Campbell collection, BIHS. 

Christmas holidays at Bribie 1920 - 1929

Many people have had camping holidays on Bribie Island in recent times. Below gives a glimpse of holidays that were taken in the 1920s, with visitors spending a "delightful time, fishing, surfing and picnicing" on the one of the finest beaches in Queensland. 

1920

A Bribie Request - "Camper" writes from Bribie Island stating that some 2000 campers will visit that resort for the Christmas holidays.  The writer expresses satisfaction at the fact that the Ambulance Brigade has rendered valuable service during the past two or three years, but urges that another great need would be filled if a police constable could be stationed on the island for at least two weeks, as commodities are often missed from tents during the absence of the occupants. 
The Brisbane Courier, 17 Dec 1920, p.8  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20483493

For a Perfect Day's Outing at a Moderate Cost take
S.S. Koopa to Bribie Island and spend a delightful time
- fishing, surfing, picnicing - on Queensland's finest beach.
Humpybong Weekly and Advertiser 3.5.1928 p.2

Christmas at Bribie. Bribie Island seems to have become even more popular than it has been in the past (writes a correspondent) as the number of campers this year exceeds that of any previous year.  Every available space is occupied by tents, and the available houses are taxed to their utmost limit.  Fishing enthusiasts are having good hauls, and other sporting pastimes are also indulged in.  Dancing, music, and moving pictures are the means of recreation at night.  On Boxing Day the visitors were well catered for by Mr. J.R. McSweeney, of the Education Department, who was elected president and secretary of the sports committee.  An excellent programme of athletic and other sporting and interesting events was provided, and as a result the secretary will be able to divide £17/10/ between the St. John and the Queensland Ambulance Brigades.  A dance was held at night, Mr. R. Davis supervising the arrangements.

The Brisbane Courier, Fri 31 Dec 1920, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20465536

1924

Ambulance Christmas Seaside Camps. The secretary of the Queensland Transport Brigade has received the following amounts from the Christmas seaside camps, representing collections, donations, and results of benefits, viz - . . . Bribie Island, £32/18/0 . . . The sincere thanks of the committee of the brigade have been extended to those who donated towards these efforts. . . . Messrs Davis, Freeman, Lacey and Thornton, of Bribie Island, the Brisbane Tug and Steamship Co. Ltd.

The Brisbane Courier Wed 9 Jan 1924 p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20671058 

Lunch on the beach at Bribie
The Brisbane Courier Tue 8 Jan 1924 p. 8
Barry and Whalley photo.

Bribie Island Holiday Campers.  Bribie Island had its usual share of holiday makers during the Christmas and New Year season.  On the reserve set apart for campers, 170 tents were erected, the occupants numbering about - 1000.  The rowdy element was kept well in check by the constable who was stationed on the island during the holidays.  Ambulance bearers had a busy time attending to cases of sunburn and minor injuries.

The Brisbane Courier, Fri 18 Jan 1924, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20696437 

Social . . . The New Year was heralded in at Bribie by a plain and fancy dress ball, which proved to be one of the most successful events ever held there.  The prizes for the best fancy dress were won by Mr. L. Hall and Miss Bestman, of the firm of Bestman and Hall, newsagents, &c.  The following also secured prizes: - Mr. Flynn, Miss N. Andrews, and Miss Enid Clenand.  During the evening the committee presented Messrs. Reg. and Cecil Campbell with a pair of gold sleeve links as an appreciation of their efforts to make the function a success.

The Brisbane Courier, Sat 19 Jan 1924, p. 23 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page1621018

1927

Holiday season at Ocean Beach, Bribie.  The attractiveness of this marvelously beautiful seaside resort was very much in evidence during a Christmas holidays (writes a correspondent). Many hundreds of visitors availed themselves of the opportunity to enjoy bathing in the open Pacific Ocean, others enjoyed long walks in the forest, gathering flowers and ferns, whilst piscatorial artists reveled in delight at the sport to be obtained at almost any point on a 20-mile beach. Picnic parties were in evidence everywhere. The holiday festivities culminated in a plain and fancy dress ball on New Year's night. It was held in the spacious ballroom at the kiosk, which was prettily decorated for the occasion. The music was supplied by the Gaiety Orchestra under the leadership of Mrs. Stalwood. Mesdames C. Buckley and C. Atkinson were appointed judges. Miss M. Charters was awarded the prize for the best dressed lady, whilst Mr J. Delhunty annexed the award for best dress gentleman. The consolation prize was won by Miss E. Balchane, Messrs. A. Macklin and A. Dewar divided honours as the most humorously dressed dancers.

Among those present were:- Mesdames W. Shirley, T. Macklan, Collins, Morley, Newton, Brookes, Stone, Nobler, Misses M. Campbell, Cowell, Webber, Nixon, McMullen, Claxton, Watson, Lynche (3), Johnston, Rasmussem, R. Campbell, L and J Foxwell, Messrs. Newton, Shirley, Macklan, D. Kerr, A. Kerr, Brown, Norby, Morley, Shaw, Robertson, P. Pickett, W. Lenehan, L. Magee, E. Hill, L. Derghafer, S. Burschill, Edmonstone, Shortz, Handrin, Charters, Mewett, Payne, Thompson, Jackson, McDowel, W. Macklan, Hiddiston, Kerr, Malyon, Taylor, P. Quinlan.

The Brisbane Courier, Sat 15 Jan 1927, p. 22 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21117378

1928

Bribie Island.

Visitors - On Monday the Koopa arrived with 950 surfers, and a good day was spent on Ocean Beach.

Exodus - Camps were struck early, and a large number of Christmas holiday makers returned to their respective callings. The Ambulance and Metropolitan Lifesavers also returned after rendering efficient and cheerful service, and their efforts were greatly appreciated.

Dance - A social and dance held on Bribieside on January 2 in aid of the Ambulance realised £8.

Personal - Dean de Witt Batty and his wife are holidaying at the Ocean Beach also Mr. Sampson.

The Brisbane Courier, Tue 10 Jan 1928, p. 15 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21212360

Bribie Island.

Eleven Months' Rainfall.  The rainfall for the 11 months ended November 31 totaled 47.34 inches, of which 44.19 inches fell in the first four months of the year.  Since the end of April there were only 12 days on which rain fell, yielding 6.15 inches.  In July, August and September, and also in November, no rain was recorded.  A storm on Tuesday night [4 Dec] yielded 1.20 inches and afforded considerable relief to householders.

Some Good Fishing.  Fishing has been particularly good lately, and some fine hauls of bream and tailor have been taken at the jetty.  During the past few days some heavy jew have been caught.  To-morrow is the anniversary of the opening of the Amaetur Fishermen’s Association’s hut.  A party of Bulimba fishing enthusiasts are camping in No. 3 hut and are having good sport.  They comprise Messrs. B. Freeman, R. Fletcher, J. Watson, J. Saunderson, and W. Mitcheson.

New Church of England. The contractor for the new Church of England has made rapid progress and is now at work on the interior fittings.  He has advanced sufficiently to permit the building committee to make arrangements for the official opening of the church and hall, which will be performed by Archbishop Sharp on Thursday, December 27.  On the following day a fete in aid of the building fund will be held in the hall and this will be followed by a concert and dance.  A fishing competition has also been arranged by the Amateur Fishermen’s Association.  It is understood that a clergyman from St. John’s Cathedral will hold divine service once a month in the church.  A dance will be held in the hall on December 22 to assist the building fund.

Archbishop Sharp and a number of dignitaries of the Church of England are expected to visit the island on Thursday, December 27 for the official opening of the new Church Hall.  The building committee comprises Mrs. Coungeau, Messrs. R.J. Davies, R. Davies, T.J. Mitchell and W. Shirley (secretary).

Christmas Holiday Traffic.  It anticipation of a heavy holiday traffic, boarding-houses are being enlarged, preparations are being made for the accommodation of a large number of campers, and booths and stalls are being erected in many placed.

School Picnic.  Mr. C.F. Diplock, headmaster of the Bribie State School, presided over a meeting of ladies which was called for the purpose of arranging a school picnic to be held on Friday, December 16, at the breaking-up of the school.  Organisers were appointed.  Arrangements were made for the holding of a school fete on Wednesday, December 26, in aid of the school funds.

Telegraph Sat 8 Dec 1928, p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article178464751 

1929

Metropolitan Life Saving Club.  The fifth annual meeting . . . Mr. W. Soden (sen.) occupying the chair.  The secretary's report showed that the club's membership stood at 25.  . . . The Bribie hut, erected on the main beach, has proved of great benefit to members, and the cooking stove donated by F. Panek was a great asset.  . . . Patrol work was efficiently carried out during Christmas and Easter holidays at Bribie surfing beach.  The club's equipment at the present time consists of a reel, three pennants, staff, and ambulance kit. . . . The club wishes to thank . . .

The Brisbane Courier, Thu 1 Aug 1929, p. 5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21433252

REFERENCES

Advertisement : For a Perfect Day's Outing at a Moderate Cost take S.S. Koopa to Bribie Island and spend a delightful time - fishing, surfing, picnicing - on Queensland's finest beach. Humpybong Weekly and Advertiser 3.5.1928 p.2 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article163728159

A Bribie Request. The Brisbane Courier, 17 Dec 1920, p.8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20483493

Christmas at Bribie. The Brisbane Courier, Fri 31 Dec 1920, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20465536 

Lunch on the beach at Bribie. A Barry and Whalley photo of six men sitting in front of the bathing sheds. The Brisbane Courier, Tues 8 Jan 1924, p.8  http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20699119

Ambulance Christmas Seaside Camps. The Brisbane Courier, Wed 9 Jan 1924 p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20671058 

Bribie Island Holiday Campers. The Brisbane Courier, Fri 18 Jan 1924, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20696437 

Social. The Brisbane Courier, Sat 19 Jan 1924, p. 23 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-page1621018 

Holiday Season. Ocean Beach, Bribie. The Brisbane Courier, Sat 15 Jan 1927, p. 22 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21117378

Bribie Island. The Brisbane Courier, Tue 10 Jan 1928, p. 15 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21212360 

Bribie Island. Telegraph, Sat 8 Dec 1928, p. 3 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article178464751 

Metropolitan Life Saving Club. The Brisbane Courier, Thu 1 Aug 1929, p. 5 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article21433252 

With thanks to the National Library of Australia for their wonderful newspaper database Trove, which is still freely available for all to search.

Bike road along Bribie beach 1923

The following article describes a bicycle journey from Brisbane to Caloundra, boat over to Bribie Island, down the ocean beach, boat across to Toorbul Point, from there to Caboolture and back to Brisbane. The bike riders were Charlie Simmonds, Joe Cribb and Ronald Simmonds, and their journey was taken in October/November 1923.

A holiday a-wheel : three boys on bikes.

by R.J.D.

This was the programme of three lads – Joe Cribb, Ron and Charlie Simmonds, who arrived at Bribie jetty on Saturday November 3, a little fagged after their spin along Bribie from Caloundra.

Charlie Simmonds, Joe Cribb, Ronald Simmonds,
not forgetting the "dawg" in Charlie's arms.
source: Daily Mail 30.12.1923 p. 13

Leaving Milton, Brisbane, where they reside, they pushed northwards along the Gympie-road, each carrying a pack of about 50lb. Good progress was made on a fair road to Caboolture, but from Caboolture to Eudlo, where they pitched camp on Monday, October 22, the going was very bad.

From Eudlo, very hilly, but beautiful, country was passed through, the drought having little effect on this country. Nambour was reached at noon on Tuesday. This township is prosperous, indeed, and provided many interesting scenes. The trail then led along the Bli Bli road, where beautiful view of the canefields, spread over the valley of Petrie's Creek were enjoyed. Camp was pitched that afternoon by the Maroochy River, at Bli Bli, at which place they decided to make headquarters for a week. A well-earned rest was then indulged for the next two days, passing pleasant hours in boating, fishing, swimming, shooting, taking photographs and enjoying the fine hospitality of neighbouring farmers.

... Friday October 26 found the lads making a tour to Mt Coolum, from whose summit a panoramic view of unsurpassed beauty was witnesses. To the east a plain stretched out to the ocean beach, the rolling breakers making a silver chain from north to south; then away east miles of ocean blue. Southward lay Old Women's Island, Maroochydore, Buderim, and away on the horizon, standing out quite clearly, could be seen the white sand hills of Moreton and the peaks of the Glass House Mountains. To the south-west, almost at the feet of the spectators, meandering from its source in the west to Maroochydore on the east, the beautiful Maroochy lay, glistening like a huge serpent in the rays of the setting sun; the rich land along its banks clothed in scrubs and forests, and yellowish green where cane was flourishing. Beyond the river rose the chocolate coloured hills of Bli Bli, then further on to the south-west and west the foothills of Nambour and Yandina, extending up to the Blackall Range, its whole length dotted with the many orchards and homesteads of countless farmers. Sweeping out from the base of Coolum, and running north-west and west, extended large, swamping plains, bounded on the west by the formidable Mt Ninderry, with undulating hills, and Mt Corroy in the north-west. Following Coolum beach northward, Noose Heads were seen, and further north a grand view of Lake Cootharaba.

Making an easy descent toward the ocean beach, and following the beach southward, brought the cyclists to the road, which led to Bli Bli, where camp was made at Dusk. It is interesting to note that to cross the Maroochy that morning one of the number swam the river and brought the ferry over; that evening the ferryman was in arms when he was told he would be obliged to forfeit the morning charge. In the end he yielded.

Early Saturday morning of October 27, one might have witnessed a peculiar craft moving up the Maroochy to the North Shore road - three lads and three bikes crammed in a bit of a dinghy. This time they were not going to chance a swim against a strong ebb tide, and an argument with the ferryman. Reaching the ocean beach, they found their occupation for the next two hours was pushing their bikes through soft sand till Point Arkwright was reached, the tide being in. On the rocky eminence of Point Arkwright the breaking surf threw showers of spray at times 20 feet in the air, providing some fine snaps.

... Of great interest to the lads were the nights spent around the camp fire at Mooloolah Bar, in company with some of the oldest pioneers of the North Coast, namely, Mr Johnson and Mr Tucker, who now both reside there. The stories of 40 and 50 years ago told by them both were of such an absorbing character that it was well on midnight before they sought their blankets. 

Thursday afternoon of November 1 found the lads packing for the home journey. Mr Johnson having rowed them across the river, cattle tracks were followed to the coast, and progress was made along the beach towards Caloundra. Before leaving the beach they got wet through with rain, waves and wading through a creek with water to the waists. However, they quickly dried their garments round the camp fire that night. Friday passed with the hours filled with amusement.

Rising at 4.30 on Saturday, they were on their way to 7 am. A local fisherman (Mr Tripcony) rowed them over to Bribie. They then rode south along Bribie with a strong south easterly in their faces, and soft sand, which made pushing hard, not to speak of two showers that wet them through. By the time they reached Bribie jetty at 12.30 they felt as if they could eat a horse.

All along the way folks had treated them with great kindness, but the hospitality of the folks at Bribie exceeded all others. After knocking a big hole in a capital spread they proceeded in a local motor boat to Toorbul Point, hitting the trail for Caboolture at 1.30.

A fairly good road was traversed to Caboolture, though sand and progress rather slow. Leaving Caboolture at 5 p.m. it was quite dark when they rode into Petrie. After a little refreshment they pushed on, in the dark, save for a light that might as well have been out. Just as Strathpine was passed one of the number broke his diamond strut. This necessitated a considerable delay, and eventually he had to take the train to Brisbane. The other two cycled on to Brisbane, arriving at their home at 10 p.m., having travelled over 75 miles that day. Just about 12.30 the other lad called in on his way home, the train being two hours late.

... Pleasant weather, good tucker, plenty of sleep, and doing the journey in easy stages, made the trip most attractive, as well as beneficial for health and educational value.

Reference

A holiday a-wheel : three boys on bikes by R.J.D. [article and photo]
The Daily Mail, Sun 30 Dec 1923, p. 13 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article218969346

Happenings on Bribie in 1922

 Happenings on Bribie in 1922

January 1922
* Boomerang Pastime Club donated their takings to fund a piano for Bribie patrons and campers
* Bribie Island Progress Association 1st annual meeting
* Miss Vera Huet found a message in a bottle in the first lagoon on the ocean beach side of Bribie

September 1922
* Public telephone official opening

November 1922
* Water supplies available at Bongaree

December 1922
* Tennis Club formed on Bribie 

Boomerang Pastime Club donated their takings to fund a piano for Bribie patrons and campers

Bribie, the popular campers’ resort, has suffered severely from soaking rains, which have been the cause of many packing up their troabnes and departing. Those who have braved the hardships, though dampened in every way, still have a good spirit.

The dancing hall on Monday night was the scene of a fancy and plain dress ball, which was successfully managed under the auspices of the Boomerang Pastime Club. The takings, which amounted to £13 odd after expenses had been deducted, were divided between the Ambulance’s fund and the piano fund. The piano, which is now the property of Bribie patrons, is a pleasant addition to the pleasure of the campers.

The Q.A.T.B. and St John’s Ambulance bearers have done excellent work, which is appreciated by all.

Dances were held every evening, and the fancy dress ball for New Year’s night was eagerly looked forward to.

The thanks of the community are extended to Miss Elsie Ackworth and Eric Butler for their untiring efforts at the piano and to various others who have contributed to the evenings’ entertainments.

source: The Daily Mail (Brisbane) Tue 3 Jan 1922 p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220532580 

Bribie Island Progress Association 1st annual meeting

The first annual meeting of the Bribie Island Progress Association was held in Mr. G.P. Campbell’s office, Creek-street, last evening.  The chairman (Mr. C.E. Wise), in his report, outlined the formation of the association on March 15, 1921.  A general meeting had been held at Bribie on March 26, 1921, the late Mr. Page, M.H.R., being among those present.  Mr. Page had been fully seized with the need for leading lights being placed so as to enable vessels to make the passage to the island in safety at night time, also with the need of telephone communication with the mainland, and had promised to assist the association in these matters.  Unfortunately for the association, Mr. Page had been called to join the great majority, and his loss was mourned.  

The association’s present secretary (Mr. A. Hall) had interested Senator M. Reid in their needs, and he and Mr. G.P. Campbell had promised to interview the Deputy Postmaster-General regarding the telephone.  Mr. Campbell had not lost sight of the need for the proper lighting of the passage and the island.  A general meeting had been called for December 26, 1921, at Bribie, but unfortunately there had been too few in attendance for a meeting to be held.  The meeting had been adjourned until the following Saturday, but the weather had proved so inclement that no meeting had been held.  The thanks of the association was tendered to Mr. G.P. Campbell for his courtesy in allowing the committee meetings to be held in his office, and for his ready help in all matters relating to the welfare of Bribie.  Thanks were also tendered to Mr. H.H. Hamley, who, at the association’s last committee meeting, kindly offered to take certain levels in part of the township to enable the association to have correct data to work upon when further draining or leveling-up was done.  

Members of the committee were also thanked for their assistance in furthering the interests of the little seaside resort known as Bribie.  The following officers were re-elected:- Patron, Mr. G.P. Campbell; president Mr. C.E. Wise; vice-presidents, Messrs. T.W. Cary and C.B. Fox; secretary Mr A.T. Hall; treasurer Mr. F. Bell; committee Messrs. B. Winston, W. Reid, C.W. Campbell, F. Bell, H.H. Hamley, N. Coungeau, Robins, R.J. Davies, T.W. Cary, M. Robinson and Hill.  

source: The Brisbane Courier, Tue 21 Jan 1922, p. 8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20555469

A Message in a Bottle  

On Friday last Miss Vera Huet found a bottle in the first lagoon on the main beach at Bribie.  It contained a piece of paper on which was written: "Easter, 1919.  Ensign.  Anzac Memorial Day. Skipper R. Kenyon: crew, J.D. MacDonald, J. MacDonald, R. Burcher, A. Mannion, V. Mannion.  Thrown overboard Bramble Bay, 23rd April, 1919." 

source:  The Brisbane Courier, Tue 7 Feb 1922, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20540690

Hello Bribie! Scene at Bribie at the recent inauguration
of telephonic communication to the island.
The Daily Mail (Brisbane) 11.10.1922 p.11

Bribie Island Telephone Installed

Bribie Island was made gay yesterday with flags and streamers of red, white, and blue. Smart motor boats cruised about on the placid waters of the beautiful channel. The excursion steamer Koopa, bedecked with flags of many colours, was snugly berthed at the jetty, while hundreds of folks ashore wore joyfully celebrating the opening of telephonic communication between this historic island and the mainland. 

The Koopa had brought down from Brisbane Mr. G. P. Campbell (managing director of the Brisbane Tug and Steamship Co., Ltd.) and Mrs. Campbell, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Campbell, Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Fox, Mr. and Mrs. A. Johnson, Councillor J. W. Carseldine (chairman), Councillor Zanow, and Mr. R. McPherson (clerk), of the Caboolture Shire Council, Mr. L. Thomas (manager of the Caboolture branch of the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney), Mr. C. E. Wise (chairman of the Bribie Progress Association), Mr. Winston (a member of the Progress Association), Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Bell, Mrs. Colin Clark, Mr. and Mrs. McDougall (Sydney), Captain J. Johnston (master of the Koopa) and Mrs. Johnston, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Campbell, Mr. A. E. Hall (secretary of the Bribie Progress Association), and others, who heartily joined with the residents in publicly thanking those who had worked in the interests of the seaside resort.

Mr. G. P. Campbell entertained his guests at luncheon in the fine saloon of the Koopa. The party then landed, and for the first time officially the ''tinkle-tinkle'' of a telephone bell was heard on the island. It was the signal that Mr. McConachie (Deputy Postmaster-General of Queensland) wished to speak to Mr. G. P. Campbell. ''Hello! Is that Mr. McConachie?'' said Mr. Campbell. A silence fell over people present. A minute later Mr. Campbell walked out of the telephone cabinet, and announced that Mr. McConachie had asked him to convey to the people of Bribie Island his congratulations on the successful consummation of their efforts to have the island linked up with the mainland by means of a telephone line.

Mr. G. P. Campbell called upon Councillor Carseldine to declare the telephone open to the public. Councillor Carseldine referred to the occasion as a red-letter day for Bribie Island, and pointed out the great convenience the installation would mean to the community. The Brisbane Tug and Steamship Company, he stated, had been mainly responsible for the improvement. The company had expended a good deal of money in making other improvements on Bribie Island, such as building a jetty and erecting houses, etc., and he had been assured that the money spent in such work had not returned 2 per cent in interest. The company, however, did not look at the financial side of the matter, their only idea being to make that seaside resort a very pleasant place for people to visit. As far as Bribie was concerned since the present Caboolture Shire Council had been formed, it had expended all money received from the island in the way of rates, etc., in improving the place. No local authority could do more than that for any locality.

Councillor Zanow (the representative of No. 1 Division of the Caboolture Shire Council, in which area Bribie Island is included) spoke of the fine work done by the Brisbane Tug and Steamship Company in improving Bribie Island.

Mr. C. E. Wise (chairman of the Bribie Progress Association) and Mr. C. B. Fox spoke in laudatory terms of Mr. G. P. Campbell's efforts on behalf of the residents and visitors to Bribie Island.

Mr. G. P. Campbell said that whatever he had done for that seaside resort was a labour of love, and he did not want any credit for it. Another improvement contemplated was the lighting of the channel. This would enable the Koopa to be navigated to Bribie jetty at night time. Next week his company intended considering the questions of building a tramline across the island to the main beach, a distance of three miles. He hoped that within six months or eight months this tramline would be constructed.

source: The Daily Mail (Brisbane) 29 Sep 1922 p. 2 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article213218012 

Water supplies available at Bongaree

Bribie's Water Supply - The hon. secretary of the Bribie Progress Association (Mr. A.T. Hall) writes:- I would like to point out that the articles appearing in this (Tuesday) morning's "Courier" might suggest that no water is available at Bribie Island, except that supplied by the Brisbane Tug Co.  This is not so.  For the benefit of those who intend visiting the island during the coming Christmas holidays I wish to point out that there is a very plentiful supply of water not only from the tanks which have been so generously supplied by the Brisbane Tug Co. free of cost, but from several wells on the island, which have pumps attached, giving always a bountiful quantity of water, which is not only free from any discolouration or disagreeable smell, but quite good for either drinking or cooking purposes, and compares most favourably with the tap water supplied in Brisbane.  

The charges of 1d. per kerosene tin, which has been recently made, is not owing to any shortage, but to stop people from deliberately wasting the water the company has taken the trouble to supply.  At 1d. per keosene tin, to equal my water rates in Brisbane I would have to consume 5376 gallons per annum, which I do not.  

source: The Brisbane Courier, Thu 23 Nov 1922, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20585470  

Bribie Island Tennis Club

A tennis club has been formed here with the following officers:- Patron, Mr. G.P. Campbell; committee of management, Messrs. R.J. Davies, jnr. (chairman), W. Freeman, T. Mitchell, R.J. Davies, senr., and R. Patterson ; hon. secretary, Mr. W. Forde.  The committee has the laying down of a court well in hand, and expects to have the official opening performed on Boxing Day.  The Brisbane Tug Co. Ltd., generously placed the land for the court at the disposal of the club.  A fancy dress ball will be held at an early date to help the club financially.

Campers. - Given fine weather present indications point to a record number of campers to this popular island holiday resort.  The boarding establishments report full bookings for Christmas. 

source: The Brisbane Courier, Mon 18 Dec 1922, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20590789

REFERENCES

News from the Country. Bribie. The Daily Mail (Brisbane) Tue 3 Jan 1922 p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article220532580  

Bribie Island Progress Association 1st annual meeting. The Brisbane Courier, Tue 21 Jan 1922, p. 8 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20555469

A Message in a Bottle. The Brisbane Courier, Tues 7 Feb 1922, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20540690

Bribie Island Telephone Installed. The Daily Mail (Brisbane) 29 Sep 1922 p. 2 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article213218012 

Hello Bribie. [PHOTO] Scene at Bribie at the recent inauguration of telephonic communication to the island. The Daily Mail (Brisbane) Wed 11 Oct 1922 p.11 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article213211122

Bribie's Water Supply. The Brisbane Courier, Thu 23 Nov 1922, p. 4 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20585470

Bribie Island. Tennis Club. The Brisbane Courier, Mon 18 Dec 1922, p. 10 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article20590789

1920 Entertainers on the Koopa

 One of the attractions of travelling aboard the Koopa on an excursion to Bribie Island in the 1920s were the various musicians that entertained guests. The following story is from Mrs Gwendolyn Vasco who husband Vasco Loureiro, a sketch artist, had entertained excursionists with "quick fire" sketches.

Around Australia, a Mandoline player

Those who were much in Brisbane in prewar days will remember Vasco, the caricaturist, who used to "do" the Bay boats and the sporting grounds, and other public places, and whose ability to portray likenesses with a few rapid pencil strokes, was notable. He enlisted, and ultimately made the supreme sacrifice. His widow some time later began to play her mandoline on the Bay and river ferry boats, and also became well known in the northern capital. She is now in Sydney, after nearly five years of wandering around Australia, and tells the following story, which presents one other aspect of the courage and resource with which women, bereaved by the war, faced the future :-

In 1918, when I received word from the military authorities that my husband had died at the "front," I though the end of the world had come, and it was only after many months of abject misery that I managed to pull myself together sufficiently to carry on musically with my mandoline, which I have always loved.

 Obtaining permission from the Brisbane Tug and Steamship Company, and also from the City Council, I played on tho excursion boat Koopa to Redcliffe and Bribie, as well as the Edward-street and Customs-house ferries, for three years.

steamship Koopa at Bribie Jetty, 4.6.1912
Photo: SLQ IE96552

In her later years, Gwendoline Vasco moved to Caloundra and was living there when she passed away in 1953, aged 76.

References

Around Australia, a Mandoline player.
The Sydney Morning Herald 5.2.1926 p. 6 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16271600

Photograph - steamship Koopa at Bribie Jetty, 4.6.1912
State Library of Queensland, ID96552

Sketch "The Coffee Fiend" by Vasco, 1916
New South Wales State Library, Vasco Loureiro World War I sketches, 1915-1918

1926 Trip to Ocean Beach

 Trip to Ocean Beach

1926

by Edward Harvey Gibbon

The following "Letter to the Editor" was written by Edward Harvey Gibbon (1849-1928) during his latter years when he lived at Ocean Beach (Woorim).

"The Brisbane Tug Co., although not a philanthropic institution, is to be congratulated on the manner in which it caters for the pleasure of the public. Through its agency has been opened up one of the most glorious marine suburbs of Brisbane. It is at once easier to access than any of the northern or southern watering places, and certainly possesses bathing and fishing facilities unsurpassed by any other coastal resort in Southern Queensland.

To reach this "Mecca," the company has organised an excellent service by means of the S.S. Koopa and Doomba. Bribie is reached about 12.30 p.m., or approximately three hours from town. Three commodious motor buses meet the visitors, who are conveyed across to Ocean Beach, the time occupied about ten minutes over a perfectly straight well-made road.

Doomba and Koopa plied the Brisbane to Bribie journey
Photo: Mountain and seaside resorts of Southern Queensland, 1925, page 94

Arriving at Ocean Beach terminus, one's attention is drawn to the magnificent kiosk built by the company for the convenience of the public. The dining hall alone can conveniently seat from 150 to 200 guests, whilst the dancing hall on the opposite side is of equally generous proportions. At the entrance hall is located the shop, where comestibles of great variety can be obtained at very reasonable prices. 

Kiosk at Ocean Beach with bus and sand on the front doorstep!
Photo: Mountain and seaside resorts of Southern Queensland, 1925, page 96

Leaving the kiosk and walking to the top of the sandhill, about two hundred feet distant, a most glorious vista meets the eye of the visitor. Extending northerly for fifteen or twenty miles and for five or six miles southerly is a simply perfect beach of smooth hard sand with the rollers of the Pacific bursting with resounding crash upon it.

This beach for surf bathing is remarkably safe, there being no under tow and no treacherous double beaches, whilst at low tide, no matter how the waves may roar, they are all broken up and a wide expanse of shallow water is provided for the veriest toddler to paddle in and enjoy itself with the utmost safety. Last year the Government sold about forty leasehold allotments on the beach frontage, and already some comfortable and neat sea-side cottages have been erected, notably by Mr. Hooper, Mr. J. Morgan (Arakoon), Mr. J. Murray, Mr. Dickson and Miss A.M.F. Gibbon (The Bean).

When satiated with the rough and tumble of the sea, the visitor can thoroughly enjoy a ramble in the unspoiled primeval bush, after which he can return to the motor 'bus and by that means and the Koopa or Doomba, be landed again in Brisbane shortly after 6 p.m., having had a most enjoyable trip."

REFERENCE
Ocean Beach by E. Harvey-Gibbon.
Letter to the Editor. The Daily Mail (Brisbane) 9.1.1926 p.11

Mountain and seaside resorts of Southern Queensland : from Noosa to the Tweed.
Compiled by the Queensland Government Tourist Bureau, 5th edition, 10th December 1925.
Repository: State Library of Queensland