The Bark Hut at Aireys Inlet where Sarah ‘Pearse’ & Robert McConachy.
The Bark Hut at Aireys Inlet has remained a focal point for our Pearse family. After the family left Aireys Inlet in 1870, many of them continued to visit for holidays and picnics. The erection of the Pearse memorial cairn in 1960 led to a family gathering. The interest generated by this event provided impetus for similar gatherings.
Firstly, the centenary of Thomas Pearse’s death in 1962, then the restoration of the Bark Hut in 1981 and, thirdly, the rebuilding of the hut in 1985 and subsequent official opening in 1986. These gatherings have not only drawn people from all over Australia, but they have maintained a sense of pride in our forefathers and a sense of belonging to the Pearse family. The bonds have strengthened in the publication of this book. South Beach Pioneers.
The book takes its title from the name our ancestors used to describe the location of Angahook Station. For a period of 20 years from 1852-1871, Tom and Martha, their daughter, Sarah, and son-in-law, Robert McConachy, lived and raised their families at South Beach. In addition, Tom’s elder brother, William, and his wife, Lucy, lived at South Beach. William, their only surviving son, was born there in 1858. The Pearse family were the South Beach Pioneers.
The McConachy Clan 