Historical information wanted on aquarium

Information is being sought about the Ocean Beach Aquarium, which once operated in Umina.

The information will be used for a new book about the cultural history of the Australian Reptile Park and its founder Eric Worrell.

The research is being undertaken by Associate Professor Kevin Markwell and Dr Nancy Cushing from the University of Newcastle.

The Aquarium, owned by the late Eric Worrell, operated in the late 1940s and early 1950s on the corner of West and Augusta Sts, Umina.

"The aquarium was a popular tourist attraction on the Peninsula, both for holiday makers and day visitors from Sydney," said research assistant Dr Annona Pearse.

"Many Peninsula residents may have memories of visiting the aquarium or supplying Eric Worrell with funnel web spiders for his early work in the supply of venom."

Dr Pearse said that cultural histories combined many academic approaches, such as sociology and history, to examine particular historical experiences.

"Examinations of historical records and interviews are just two of many avenues of research that are undertaken," she said.

Details of the opening date of the Ocean Beach Aquarium and any associated photographs and newspaper articles are being sought.

"I hope someone can give us details of an opening date," said Dr Pearse.

"It's surprising how such information can be so difficult to pin down."

Readers who may have been involved in working with reptiles at the Ocean Beach Aquarium are also encouraged to make contact.

Dr Pearse said that any information, photographs or memorabilia "may help in piecing together an important part of the history of the Peninsula".

She may be contacted on 4382 6514.

Press release, 10 Jan 2007 Annona Pearse, University of Newcastle