Is now the time to capture/record memories of Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest as it used to be, before much of that early material and those older residents with personal memories are gone forever?

Tea Gardens CTC is sponsoring a public meeting on Tuesday, March 14, at 7pm in the Tea Gardens Masonic Centre, for all interested residents to explore the pros and cons of forming an Historical Society and possibly to elect a steering committee to progress the idea further.

"Bulahdelah Historical Society has kindly offered to send a representative to give us the benefit of their experience and to advise us on the steps we should take," explained Trevor Cook, Manager of Tea Gardens CTC.

All residents and visitors are welcome.

If you are unable to make that meeting date but would like your thoughts conveyed to the meeting, please contact the CTC on 4997 0749 beforehand.

Mr Cook said that there has been a lot of interest in local history over the past couple of years, probably due to the fact that the town is starting to lose some of its significant heritage buildings.

"With the fate of the Universal Store up in the air and the release of the historical DVD's, helpful residents are approaching us from everywhere, with ideas and interesting stories relating to local history," he said.

"It is time to stop talking and start doing something," he added.

Mr Cook said that the more people that come along to the meeting, the better.

"The fact that Bulahdelah have such an active Historical Society, along with their own premises, it could be an indication of what could be available for Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest if there is sufficient interest from the community," concluded Mr Cook.