Passion Becomes Published Reality

Newcastle Herald

Thursday December 7, 2006

GR

WEARING short pants and standing on a jetty at Nelson Bay a young John Armstrong was captivated by HMAS Westralia, in training in Port Stephens for World War II battle.

That experience in 1942 fostered a lifelong interest in Port Stephens and its history.

Mr Armstrong has since found a shared passion with mate of 50 years, photographer Ron Morrison. The two have published a book, Port Stephens: The ultimate experience, and launched it last night.

The history of Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay as a World War II US and Australian training base is detailed. So too are past sheep runs and timber towns and Walter Burley Griffin's proposal for an Australian capital site at North Arm Cove.

Both men are former employees of The Newcastle Morning Herald.

© 2006 Newcastle Herald

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