Rothwell Lodge by Robert Hannan
Rothwell Lodge (Photo: Robert Hannan)

What a delight for around 95 members and their guests to celebrate the end of a big year for the Society in the grounds of historic Rothwell Lodge (built by George Allen circa 1847). Rothwell Lodge is one of the earliest surviving houses in Glebe and is set in lovely grounds. It is now the home of Peter and Robert. It is very significant in Glebe’s history and we are fortunate that our hosts have a passion for the ongoing restoration of the house and surrounds and are generous in sharing this with others.

We enjoyed the landscaped gardens on a fine and balmy afternoon on 8 December 2019. Guided tours of the house were offered as well as the opportunity to view a selection of the Heritage Subcommittee’s exhibition from our Glebe Society 50th Anniversary Community Festival held in June. Background music by the talented guitarist Sam Joole, and great food and service added to the festive atmosphere. Thanks to everyone who brought gifts for our annual ‘Community Giving Tree’ – the table was groaning with donations.

Many who attended remarked that the event was a fitting end to a huge year of celebrations which aimed to acknowledge and showcase the important contributions by so many to our local community. People were still talking about the events, publications and displays from the Community Festival that stood out for them. These included learning about the beginnings of the Glebe Society. People appreciated the broader perspectives of Glebe from the time when Aboriginal people lived on the shores of Blackwattle and Johnston’s Creeks, significant Aboriginal people and institutions / associations, Glebe environment, heritage, radical Glebe, community connections, personal perspectives of living in Glebe, Glebe Trams, Colourful Characters and ‘My 2037’ photo contributions from students at all local schools – as well as the music, theatre and the launch event.

It was a fabulous year of celebration – and a timely reminder of the part we can all play in building and continuing to develop the community spirit which makes living in Glebe so special.

Judy Vergison
Events Co-ordinator

Glebe Society President, Brian Fuller, and Janice Challinor, Community Development Convenor, on the verandah of Rothwell Lodge (Photo: Josh Mitchell)