CONTRIBUTERS/CONSULTANTS

Gathered here is the team of devoted people who are working together researching the local history. Each are specialists in their own fields and are determined to find and preserve the past history of Gnowangerup.

GORDON FREEGARD

HISTORIAN & WEB SITE MANAGER

GORDON FREEGARD

Born in Gnowangerup in 1942 to a pioneering farming family at Pallinup Moved with family to Pickering Brook in 1980 from Roleystone. Established "The Chrysie Place" business growing Chrysanthemums and supplying plants and flowergrowers needs across Australia. Previous occupations have been Nurseryman, Lawnmowing Contractor, Visual Merchandiser and 34 years as a Wholesale - Retail Business Owner. In 2017 Gordon retired selling his business to a loyal staff member.
Two grown children who both attended Pickering Brook Primary School. Daughter, Christine is married to Roger and lives in Stoneville with grand-daughter Ella.  Son, Tim lives with partner, Heather in Pickering Brook with grandson Sam.
Gordon became interested in the past history of the area and saw a need to save and preserve it for future generations. Since 2008 he has been very interested in early history of Pickering Brook and surrounding areas. In the preservation of it, he has spent hundreds of hours researching, interviewing and  compiling the history. Two of his greatest achievements are having been instrumental in establishing an Heritage Council of Western Australia award winning website for the Pickering Brook Heritage Group and writing the book "History of Pickering Brook and   Surrounding Areas".  And now is very excited establishing this new website on the History of Gnowangerup, with a great supporting team of qualified contributers and consultants.
Since having a serious bout of cancer a few years ago, he now looks at life somewhat different. Finding time to relax, unwind and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Also his other achievements is the honour of being awarded Life Memberships of both The Western Australian Chrysanthemum Society and The Chameleon Society of W.A. He has been heavily involved in saving lives by suicide prevention of people suffering from gender dysthoria and sexual orientation, offering counselling and support. He was also involved in the creation of "Safe Zones" in 15 High Schools where children could confidentually discuss their concerns and receive understanding, advice and help. He is a serious collector of Sewing Machines, having one of the largest collections in Australia.
Enjoys the peace and quiet, the fresh air and space of living in Pickering Brook.
Gordon tries to accept and respect all people as they are - warts and all.

MERILYN STEWART

LOCAL HISTORY CONTRIBUTER & CONSULTANT

MERILYN STEWART

Gnowangerup, though now having a diminishing population, has had thousands of residents and even more descendants of residents. Little surprise that there is an endless amount of history to be collected and shared!
I was born in Gnowangerup in 1954. My parents were farmers and had a keen interest in local history. I have always followed this interest. In 2002, my cousin Jeanette and her mother, Aunty Mona shared their memories and wonderful photograph collections…this proved to inspire me to continue with researching local history.
In 2004 I started interviewing and collecting oral histories and photos from other residents of the area, further inspired by the wonderful Centenary Celebrations at Gnowangerup.
In 2008 I assisted the local school when they held their Cententary Celebrations -  an amazing amount of historic material was made available for the public.
In 2009 and 2010 Lorraine Symington and I set up an exhibition in the local hall using the material we had gathered over a period of many years. We had assistance from some wonderful people from the area and it raised enough for the local RSL to undertake urgent restoration and preservation work. Part of this exhibition was then displayed in Albany, again, well attended.
Once having the material on hand I wanted a way to share it with other like-minded people, mainly residents and past residents of Gnowangerup.I started posting on Facebook and as of October 2024 have 7,900 members. Many more people visit the site…some posts gaining over 150,000 views.The Menang and Goreng Noongar Nation extended over this area, and I appreciate the members and the contributions that have been made.
As I left Gnowangerup when I was 16 years old, spending most of my life in Perth (not being a ‘true’ local!) I have always relied upon and welcome help from others with verifying the research I undertake. I am very grateful when someone lets me know I have made an error in date, place, etc. I am extremely grateful for those who have recorded local history and/or shared their family or local history with me so that in turn I can share with others. It gives me the greatest pleasure when people let me know they read for the first time the life events of their forebears or have enjoyed reminiscing about their childhood in the Gnowangerup District (or indeed, anywhere!)
Gordon contacted me in 2022 and we have collaborated often since that time. I am very excited about adding to the website Gordon has set up, and am sure it will encourage more people to share their stories (and photos) with others…even if it is just immediate family. Thank you Gordon for this opportunity….

ACKNOWLEDGING OTHER CONTRIBUTERS

Allan Faulkner
Carolyn Gamble
Helen Harris
Jeanette Harris
Sandra Hewitt
David Kindred
Judy Mayor
Glen Oliver
Gladys Potter
Graeme Pratt
Sadie Stewart
Steven Stutley
Lorraine Symington
Gloria Vermaes

AND MANY, MANY OTHER VALUABLE CONTRIBUTERS