Terrigal Local History
Terrigal is a beautiful coastal town located in New South Wales, Australia. It has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The name Terrigal comes from the Aboriginal word "Tarragal," which means "place of little birds."
In the early 1800s, Terrigal was mainly used as a fishing village by the local Aboriginal people. It wasn't until the 1820s that Europeans began to settle in the area. One of the first settlers was John Gray, who built a timber mill near Terrigal Creek.
The area slowly grew as more settlers arrived in the 1830s and 1840s. Terrigal became known for its timber industry as more mills were built in the area. The timber was used to build ships, houses, and furniture.
In the early 1900s, Terrigal became a popular holiday destination for people from Sydney. Many would visit for the day or stay in boarding houses and holiday homes. The town's popularity grew, and in 1915, Terrigal's first hotel, the Pacific Hotel, was built.
During World War II, Terrigal was home to a large American military base. Soldiers were stationed at Terrigal for training, and many local residents worked on the base. After the war, the base was dismantled, and the land was returned to the community. Today, some of the old barracks are still standing and have been converted into houses.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Terrigal became a popular destination for surfing. The town's beaches, including Terrigal Beach and Wamberal Beach, are known for their excellent surf breaks. Over the years, Terrigal has hosted numerous surfing competitions and events.
In the 1970s, Terrigal began to grow as a tourist destination. The town's first high-rise building, the Terrigal Hotel, was built in 1975. More hotels and resorts followed, and the town's infrastructure was improved with the addition of new roads and facilities. Terrigal became a popular holiday destination for families, and the town's population grew.
Today, Terrigal is a vibrant and bustling town. It is known for its beautiful beaches, excellent surf breaks, and relaxed lifestyle. The town has a thriving tourism industry, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops. Terrigal remains a popular destination for families, couples, and surfers, and its rich history is still evident throughout the town.