Stephen Wentworth (descendant), Trevor Lloyd (Blue Mountains Blue Wave), John O'Sullivan (Blue Mountains Blue Wave), and David Blaxland (descendant).
Descendants of Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson have been brought together for the first time in preparation for the re-enactment of the crossing of the Blue Mountains.
More than 25 direct descendants met at the property of Hartley Saddlery who will be assisting with the supply of horses and equipment necessary for the success of the re-enactment in May.
Blue Wave organiser John O’Sullivan said the occasion was an opportunity to get a sense of the re-enactment of the crossing, which takes place over 21 days from May 11 this year.
“It was tremendous to have not just some of the people who will take part in the re-enactment, but also their families, and some of the horses and dogs,” said Mr O’Sullivan.
“Each day of the crossing, the party will consist of three explorers drawn from descendents of the original 1813 explorers, three convicts, one kangaroo hunter, four horses and five dogs,” he said.
Blue Wave is a non-profit organisation set up specifically to stage the re-enactment to mark the 200th anniversary.
“Aside from doing all the logistics of the crossing, we’re also raising funds to cover the costs of things like food, feed for the horses and dogs, and insurance,” said Mr O’Sullivan.
“We are still looking to secure sponsors for the project — we know that this will attract widespread publicity for any organisations involved, as the group travel through the Mountains for this historic event.”
In order to raise money for the event, they are holding a fundraiser from 6.30pm on Saturday, February 9 at Penrith Panthers. Tickets are $80 per head or $720 for a table of 10.
“We really need the community to support this event — it’s a way of recognising and acknowledging the history that has created the Mountains and had a big impact on the survival of NSW as a colony.”
To book or enquire about sponsorships contact Trevor Lloyd on 4739-2090 or via email at info@lloydspropertyvaluations.com.au