Community spirit is documented

Jeremy Linton-Mann is celebrating 40 years of film and television program making with the premiere of his latest documentary Community Spirit at Wagstaffe Hall on August 1.

The film focusses on the predominantly volunteer groups within the four connected communities of the Bouddi Peninsula.

Wagstaffe, Pretty Beach, Hardys Bay and Killcare residents have inherited community spirit, a tradition that was a vital facet of earlier times.

"Back then everyone came and went by ferry because the existing rough tracks into the area were totally unsuitable for the very few private cars," said Mr Linton-Mann.

"Ferries were indeed the lifeline of the district.

"Residents would take the ferry to Gosford market once a week, or go to the pictures or shops at Woy Woy or Ettalong.

"The 3/6d return fare of the 1950s included cinema admission.

"Shopkeepers relied on the ferries for the supply of groceries, medicines and household goods.

"Bigger items were delivered by the twice-weekly Sydney ferries."

The Peninsula has always been a holiday destination, he said.

"Neighbours helping neighbours and visitors was the norm, and this tradition is strongly apparent today."

Recorded over several seasons, the two-part documentary brings a focus to the activities of many of the community groups, as well as Pretty Beach Public School and the RSL.

It features the Community Church Friday Friendship Group, whose members play cards and bowls and visit the less mobile seniors of the area.

It shows the Frigid Digits Winter Swimmers who enjoy the cool water and the post-swim Putty Beach breakfasts.

Mr Linton-Mann said: "The Wagstaffe CWA raise impressive funds for both local and international causes and the Pretty Beach-Wagstaffe and District Progress Association devote their energies to preserving the beautiful area and amongst other things host the annual Australia Day events.

"We see the Surf Club, established in 1929, whose volunteers must pass a stringent exam to gain bronze medallions before patrolling the beach.

"The Rural Fire Service volunteers' dedication to fire-fighting and other activities, such as being Santa's reindeers, is remarkable.

"The members of The Killcare Gardening Club maintain gardens, visit interesting places and have fun at their Christmas party.

The documentary also features notable citizens such as Bert Meyer, Syd Jenkins and Bruce Dunlop.

"Rod Radford discusses the Amphicar medicine delivery service and how Bob Dyer filmed the story for his show," said Mr Linton-Mann.

"Adrian Murphy tells of his family's ferry boat service.

"Bird man Les Walker feeds the birds at 4pm.

"The Walsingham children visit the big kids at the primary school

"John Jordan talks about The Yum Yum Tree social club and Keron Living discusses visitors' reactions to the area.

"John Bell and Anna Volska perform to raise money for the Hall's piano.

"The RSL stages a Family Fun Fundraiser day for the school, hosts the annual Anzac Day service and its fishing club competes and returns laden.

"The school puts on its first musical and the Melbourne Cup crowd picnic at Putty Beach.

"The warmth of a caring community in action is evidenced as the driving force of Community Spirit," he said.

Association Newsletter, July 23