Bellerive has a rich colonial history, and a new sign pays tribute to one of Clarence’s lesser-known heroes.
Ina Reserve, located in King Street, Bellerive, pays tribute to Ina Elliott who was a nurse in World War II, remembered for her bravery and service during extreme duress.
At some point in recent decades the sign for the reserve was removed, but never replaced, until now.
Bellerive historian and author, John Sargent, requested replacement of the sign saying it was important that history was not lost.
The reserve is also home to an obelisk, a memorial to fallen soldiers from World War I, which was first erected in 1925 on Victoria Esplanade at the bottom of King Street.
Clarence City Council Mayor, Brendan Blomeley thanked Mr Sargent for his dedication to preserving the history of Bellerive.
“In modern times, history is not always valued the way that it should be, and I applaud local historian, John Sargent, for his service to our community which will be valued for many years to come,” said Mayor Blomeley
Mr Sargent, patron of the Bellerive Historical Society said the first dawn service was held beneath the obelisk on King Street in 1935, but the obelisk moved to its present site at the reserve some years later.
A sixth-generation resident of Bellerive, Mr Sargent said it was important to maintain and preserve historic values in Clarence for future generations.
He runs a local history room which is open by appointment and he regularly speaks to local school groups passing on his wealth of knowledge.
“I am glad the sign has been replaced. There is so much significant history that has taken place in Clarence, and I would like to see that shared with more people,” Mr Sargent said.
Read more about Clarence History.