Local Area History

First to inhabit Port Stephens and surrounding area was the Worimi and Wonarua peoples. They led a carefree existence in the port for a long time possibly up to 150,000 years or more thought by archeologists after artifacts uncovered in the area.

The rich waterways and territories of the area were abundant with fish and delicacies of marine life. The Brolga crane and the black necked stork (Jabiru) once inhabited the shores.

The Kooris of Port Stephens led a healthy lifestyle before Europeans arrived; excellent water sources and abundant food supplies assured the survival of the people.

Writings from early Europeans describe canoes in the early morning and late afternoons dotting the waterways as fishers patiently waited the approach of a fresh meal.

Others have reported that the animals of the Tilligery peninsula were tamed as pets for the Koori children, who it is said were never physically punished for any misdemeanor.

The Koori life back then was rich with music, song, dance and storytelling, Socializing being of upmost importance to the people who were always poised for a corroboree or meetingof sub/clan tribes who all had their own territory. They interacted, socialized and inter-married between clans.