According to the Gerringong and District Historical Society’s Bobbie Miller, Gerroa was originally occupied by Burke’s farm.

‘Kooringal’ at 40 Stafford Street was one of the very first holiday cottages to be built, in 1927, by the Ricketts family.

They were part of a furniture manufacturing business ‘Ricketts and Thorp’ at Rockdale in Sydney, and the family filled the house with original furniture.

In 1992, Garry and Brenda Langton bought the house from Brian Ricketts, complete with furniture, and have restored and extended the house.

They will have photos and memorabilia connected with the history of the house on display. 

“For anyone interested in furniture in particular it’s a really interesting place to visit,” Mrs Miller said. 

At the same time, an early fishing cottage, in a stunning position right on Seven Mile Beach, will be open for visitors at 56 Burke Street.

The current owners bought the house from the fisherman in the 1970s.

The tour will start at ‘Kooringal’, and off-street parking will be available at the nearby Gerroa Community Centre in Stafford Street.

After viewing ‘Kooringal’, visitors can proceed to the fisherman’s cottage by car or on foot using the public pathway to the beach.

Mrs Miller said this was a rare opportunity to visit these properties, which had much historical significance to Gerroa and the municipality overall. 

The entry fee of $10 includes visits to both houses and afternoon tea which will be served at ‘Kooringal’.

Proceeds will go to Gerringong and District Historical Society.

Children will be admitted free, but must be accompanied by an adult.

For further inquiries, please phone Mrs Miller on 0413 967 385. 

The tour will take place between 1pm and 4pm.