In 1925, a significant chapter in the history of the Burragorang Valley unfolded when J.M. Morris completed a survey of the region. His mission was no ordinary task, for he had been entrusted with this mission by none other than the prominent mining company, BHP.
But what brings us to this story today is not just the historical significance of Morris's survey. It's the discovery of an old survey map. This map held within it the locations of early tunnels and sample points, a silent witness to a time when the valley was poised to transform.
This discovery sparked an intense curiosity, the kind that ignites the desire to delve into the past, to uncover the tales of those who ventured into the heart of the valley in pursuit of coal and those who mined it for domestic use. It was the catalyst for this short video, a journey into the depths of history and the untold stories that lay buried beneath the picturesque landscapes of the Burragorang Valley.
And so, armed with this map and a thirst for knowledge, we delve into the stories and try to uncover and possibly rewrite some of the early history before the valley was changed forever years later.
Credits
The National Library of Australia
Australian Museum
Geoscience Australia
Digs NSW
The Wollondilly Heritage Centre
Camden Museum
Owen W. Pearce
Phillip J Hughes
Dennis Aston
Harry Jay