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Oral History of Rokeby

Voices from the Vale is a collection of people's memories of Clarendon Vale which is celebrating its 50th birthday as a suburb in 2026.

Construction of homes by the Housing Department commenced in 1975 with the first residents moving in the following year. By September 1976, thirty families had moved into the new neighbourhood. There were many challenges, not least the lack of public transport, a post box or shops. Prior to Clarendon Vale Primary School opening in 1978, parents had to take their children across a muddy paddock, an unsafe bridge and a busy road to Rokeby Primary School.

Residents at first met in each others homes until in December 1977 when the Department was persuaded to set aside a home as a neighbourhood meeting place. Early activities included arts and crafts, self defence, guitar tuition and yoga.

A survey reflected the needs of the community. 71% of children were under the age of six, hence the need for child care support, and 60% of women had no transport, hence the need for better public transport.

Slowly services have been gained, thanks in large part to the resilience and determination of locals to improve their neighbourhood.

So it is time to celebrate Clarendon Vale, for  the connections that have been forged in the community through hard work and persistence. These connections have often come as a result of challenges faced along the way, and no doubt this will help the community continue to grow and evolve into the future.

Finally, a big thank you to all those who have contributed their stories:
- Dee Ayers
- Rob Braslin
- Judy Crossin
- Kristy Leishman
- Anne Marmion
- Deb Savage
- Lynne Sayer

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Explore the oral history of Rokeby


If you also have memories of Clarendon Vale that you would like to share please contact David at david@tacplaci.org.au

Source: Tasmanian Archives: Clarendon Vale Neighbourhood Centre, AD248/1/9 

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