Honouring history: Four new blue plaques unveiled in NSW
In a significant tribute to the remarkable individuals who have shaped New South Wales' rich history, four new blue plaques have been officially unveiled across the state.
These plaques celebrate the contributions and legacies of Grace Emily Munro, the Notaras brothers, Susan Schardt, and Arthur Stace.
Grace Emily Munro (1879–1964), the co-founder and first president of the Country Women's Association of Australia (CWA), has been honoured with a blue plaque at the Senior Citizens Rest Centre in Bingara. Grace devoted her life to improving the lives of regional and remote women – she was a generous and enthusiastic leader of the CWA, campaigning tirelessly for much-needed resources and raising funds for countless women's restrooms and hospital facilities across the state. By the time she retired in 1926 due to ill health, the CWA had 4,500 members in 100 branches.
The pioneering spirit of Ioannis (Jack) and Antonios (Tony) Notaras, 2 Greek migrant brothers, has been commemorated with a blue plaque at the Saraton Theatre in Grafton. Migrating from the Greek island of Kythera to Sydney in the early 1900s, the brothers, along with their father, moved to Grafton in 1908. The pair became highly successful restaurateurs and invested £23,000 (the equivalent of over $2 million today) to build the Saraton Theatre. Opening in 1926, the Saraton Theatre continues to be a central community hub and is operated today by descendants of Jack and Tony.
Susan Schardt (1872–1934), the founder of Royal Rehab in Ryde, has been recognised with a blue plaque at the facility. Born sight impaired, Susan devoted her life to assisting other people with disabilities during a time when support services were limited. Establishing the Commonwealth Home for Destitute Invalids in 1900 (now known as Royal Rehab), she was influential in changing social attitudes towards disability.
Arthur Stace (1885–1967), affectionately known as Mr Eternity, has been honoured with a blue plaque at St Barnabas Anglican Church in Broadway. For 35 years, he anonymously wrote the word 'Eternity' on Sydney's streets, captivating the city's imagination. Stace's message was famously displayed on the Sydney Harbour Bridge during the New Year's Eve fireworks in 2000.
Blue Plaques NSW shares the fascinating stories of people and events that have shaped our state. To find out more about these 4 blue plaque recipients and their locations in New South Wales, visit the Blue Plaques website.
Quotes attributable to Sam Kidman, Executive Director Heritage NSW:
These new blue plaques not only celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals but also serve as a reminder of the diverse and inspiring history of New South Wales.
Grace Munro's plaque is a tribute to her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of regional and remote women, a legacy that continues to impact the lives of regional Australian women today through the work of the Country Women's Association today.
The Saraton Theatre holds a special place in the hearts of Grafton residents, and it owes much of its history to the vision and hard work of the Notaras brothers. Their blue plaque ensures that their names will forever be remembered in Grafton's history.
Blind from birth, Schardt defied discrimination and pioneered the disability movement in New South Wales. Her legacy lives on, not only through Royal Rehab but also through the countless lives touched by the services it provides.
The story of Arthur Stace is woven into the very fabric of Sydney. The blue plaque at St Barnabas Anglican Church will serve as a reminder of the message of hope and faith that he spread for more than 30 years.
Images for media: Dropbox.
