Lake Macquarie History

Thomas Humphreys Reserve, Swansea

Thomas Humphreys, a boat builder by trade, worked with his uncle James L Boyd. In 1915 he established his own boatbuilding yard in Swansea. He built the first surf boat for the club now known as Swansea Belmont in 1929. His design for a surfboat built in the early 1940’s made a great impact on surf boat racing and was adopted by all surf clubs. During the war he increased his staff to fill government contracts to build ships’ lifeboats and launches for the services. He was active in local affairs and was honoured by the Belmont 16ft Sailing Club and both Swansea Belmont and Swansea Caves Beach Surf Lifesaving Clubs. In 1957 while on a fishing trip off Caves Beach he drowned. His boatyard continued to trade until the 1960’s. The Thomas Humphrey’s Reserve in Swansea was named after him.

Acknowledgement of Country

We remember and respect the Ancestors who cared for and nurtured this Country. It is in their footsteps that we travel these lands and waters. Lake Macquarie City Council acknowledges the Awabakal people and Elders past, present and future.

Council acknowledges traditional custodians throughout Australia. We commit to listening deeply to and collaborating with First Peoples in our work.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website and Council's cultural collections may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons in photographs, film, audio recordings or printed material.

This website may contain place names, opinions and terms that reflect authors' views or those of the period in which the item was written or recorded. These may not be considered appropriate today.

If you experience any issues with the website or its content please contact us [email protected]