An article published in The Shoalhaven and Nowra News on Wednesday, February 20, 1946, clearly illustrates their exasperation, claiming people in Bomaderry were “living in no man’s land”.

Mr Clayton McDonald made these claims alongside a Mr J Walker, who both attended a Nowra Municipal Council meeting, and asked on behalf of the Bomaderry Progress Association, that council consider absorbing the area into the Municipality of Nowra, rather than remain under the control of Berry Municipal Council.

Mr McDonald explained that the people of Bomaderry wanted to “get somewhere” and desired improved amenities.

Those living on the northern side of the Shoalhaven River, looked across and saw Nowra supplying industry and the railway station with water, while as individual households they were cut off and had to depend on tank supplies. Each year they suffered through a period of time without water.  

“We don’t represent the majority, but we do represent the more progressive people of Bomaderry,” Mr McDonald said. 

“We want to do the right thing by Berry Council, but we also want to do the right thing for ourselves – and most of us feel we have suffered an injustice.”

Mr Walker spoke of the people living on Illaroo Road, and claimed if a ballot was taken, there would be a three or four to one majority in favour of joining Nowra Council. He was certain amalgamation was the solution.

Alderman Moorhouse said the very idea of amalgamation prompted him to stand for council.

“With the Navy taking 54,000 gallons of water a day, we should be able to give a good service to Bomaderry when the demand at the aerodrome diminishes,” he said.

“Gas mains to the bridge could be extended to Bomaderry, and with extra revenue could fit in with council’s plans in the appointment of a permanent gas manager.

“The amalgamation would make Nowra a better town.” 

Alderman Thompson, West, Schofield, O’Keeffe, Glass and Ryan all agreed with the proposal.

Ald. Ryan, after putting forward a very strong case for centralised control, moved that a conference of local government bodies concerned be held at the earliest possible date to consider the question of local government in the district. The resolution was seconded by Ald. Schofield and carried.

The Shoalhaven Shire was established on July 1, 1948, following the amalgamation of Nowra, Berry, Broughton Vale, Ulladulla, South Shoalhaven, Cambewarra and Clyde Councils.