Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall used a Mayoral Minute to acknowledge the legacy of the Ron Rathbone Local History Award as it approaches its 20th anniversary in 2026.
Established in 2006, Council's Ron Rathbone Local History Competition honours the late Ron Rathbone OAM, a passionate teacher, dedicated local historian, accomplished author and tireless advocate for preserving the stories of the local area.
Across four decades of service on Council, Councillor Rathbone demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the community. He directed his Councillor allowance, and later his Mayoral allowance, towards creating an enduring legacy that continues to support local historical research, writing and education to this day.
The Ron Rathbone Award for Local History research and writing will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026.
For nearly two decades, the award has inspired residents, researchers, students and history enthusiasts to uncover and document the people, places and moments that have shaped the Bayside region. It has helped preserve valuable local stories that may otherwise have been lost to time.
The Ron Rathbone Award for Local History Research and Writing will celebrate its milestone 20th anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of championing community heritage and historical storytelling.
To ensure the award continues to thrive into the future, Council, in consultation with St George Historical Society and Botany Historical Trust, is reviewing its structure and format.
This review will help ensure the competition remains contemporary, accessible and engaging, while continuing to encourage high-quality research and storytelling that enables future generations to understand, appreciate and value the rich history of the local area.
Mayor Edward McDougall said:
"Council is committed to continuing to honour his legacy, and the review will ensure it continues to preserve local heritage," Mayor Edward McDougall said.
