The Davidson Electorate has received its first ever Blue Plaque, which honours one of Australia’s most celebrated authors, Ethel Turner.
Member for Davidson Jonathan O’Dea said the Blue Plaque was installed at Woodlands, number 1 Werona Ave, Killara, - the house where Ethel Turner wrote one of her most well-known novels.
“Ethel Turner is the author of the beloved children’s book Seven Little Australians, a classic coming-of-age story of wilful, rebellious siblings under the care of a rigid father. The natural setting of Woodlands offered great inspiration to the young writer” Mr O’Dea said.
"Ethel's contribution to Australian literature is immeasurable and her legacy continues to this day, with Seven Little Australians the only Australian children’s book to have remained continuously in print since its publication in 1894.
“Ethel has an interesting connection to another woman honoured by a NSW Blue Plaque. The first publication of an illustration by May Gibbs was on the cover of one of Ethel Turner’s books.”
Minister for Heritage James Griffin said the NSW Blue Plaques program is like the program in the United Kingdom, and provides an opportunity for communities to learn about their local heritage.
“It’s incredibly exciting to see so many diverse stories from around the state come to light through the Blue Plaques program,” Mr Griffin said.
“Our $5 million Blue Plaques program is all about recognising the eclectic characters, personalities and important public figures that have made or become part of the history and fabric of our state.
“So far, 21 Blue Plaque recipients have been named, and we’ll be inviting the NSW public to nominate more noteworthy people, stories and events when a second round of nominations opens later this year.” Mr Griffin concluded.
For more information, visit www.blueplaques.nsw.gov.au
