Two women at Botany Bay

Datec 1924

Object number00018314

NamePhotograph

MediumSilver gelatin photographic print, paper

DimensionsOverall: 79 x 132 mm, 0.001 kg

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionAn untitled photograph showing two women seating on the rocks at Groyne's Beach, Botany Bay in New South Wales. The Cook Obelisk (commemorating the landing place of Captain Cook) can be seen in the background. On the back of the postcard is written `Mrs. Jobling and Hazel, outing historic rocks of Botany Bay [illegible name] 24'.HistoryBotany Bay, like other coastal suburbs, became popular destinations for pleasure seekers from the early 1800's. From the 1840's the tourist market began in earnest and at Botany Bay hotels such as the Sir Joseph Banks catered to the growing trade. This hotel "included attractions for holiday makers such as pleasure grounds, dancing, sporting fixtures and by 1850 a private zoo". By the 1920's shorter working hours, urban expansion and improved public transport saw more and more Australians indulging in leisure activities. A more relaxed approach to beach fashion and accessibility saw women and children able to enjoy the outdoors in greater numbers. Botany Bay was a popular destination as not only did it offer the beach and infrastructure of food and entertainment, it had the historical appeal of being the landing place of Captain Cook. SignificanceThis photograph illustrates leisure activities for Sydneysiders in the 1920's. Day trips to the coast were popular once leisure time increased and public transport became more accessible.