The man-of-the-house and I found ourselves childless yesterday, so with a beautiful sunny winter’s day looming, we decided to set out for a little adventure. . . just the two of us.
We didn’t actually venture too far from our beachside paradise. . . just an hour up the road to be exact, to a spot which we use to visit years ago. . .back in those BC days [before children].
But on the way we stopped off here. . .
And couldn’t leave without a little something. . . a beautiful old tin produce stencil and a pickles bottle for my vase collection.
From there it was just a little way down the road towards the coast and through some quaint little dairy towns to South West Rocks; a stunning coastal town on its own, but also famous for the ruins of the Trial Bay Gaol.
Established in 1886, Trial Bay Gaol is the only example of a state prison specifically built to carry out public works. The intention was for prisoners to construct a breakwater in Trial Bay and create a safe harbour between Sydney and Brisbane.
The gaol and the breakwater were built using locally quarried pink granite, which is exceptionally hard and caused many problems throughout construction. The plans to build the breakwater were abandoned after 17 years, as the rough surf continued to wash away what progress was made.
After the failure of the breakwater scheme in 1903, the gaol closed for several years, as the prisoners were no longer needed there. However, in 1915, during the First World War, Trial Bay Gaol re-opened and was used as an internment camp for citizens of German descent until 1918.
Today, the gaol stands quietly on Lagger’s Point, creating a dramatic backdrop to the lovely beaches of South West rocks.
All that’s left is the stone construction and most of the iron bars. Without a roof or any timber structures the tall stone ruins are cold and mysterious; even the water puddles from over night rain reflect its eerie past.
The only sign of life are a family of kangaroos, who seem to have made the ruins their home.
Standing outside the ruins you can see clear across the water to the mountain ranges around Coffs Harbour.
After we did our little bit of exploring, the man-of-the-house and I took our picnic lunch down to a spot directly below the gaol. It was a warm and sunny 23 degrees, so we lapped up that winter sun.
We just sat. . .
enjoyed the moment. . .
watched the waves smashing against the rocks. . .
and enjoyed this rare event of having time together.
Isn’t it amazing how a simple day trip can make you feel so relaxed and rejuvenated. Today it is back to work for the grown-ups and school holidays for the kids. Ahh. . . two weeks of commotion, disruption, distraction . . . no I’ll go with fun. Yes, I hope our holiday fortnight will be FUN!!
Hugs ~ Kerryanne
