SYDNEY 50 YEARS AGO

Evening Post, Volume CXXVIII, Issue 70, 20 September 1939, Page 7

SYDNEY 50 YEARS AGO

Fifty years ago there was so much rivalry between Sydney and Mel* bourne that some people solemnly discussed the possibility of a war between New South Wales and Victoria. This extraordinary state of affairs was quoted by the retiring City Librarian (Mr. C. H.Bertie) as an example of the progress made in Australia in the past half-century. In 1889, Mr.\Bertie said, Sydney was a provincial town with a provincial outlook. There were only a few large , buildings, no motor-cars, and only a few steam trams. The chief form of transport was the four-horse bus. In : Circular Quay the bowsprits of sailingships protruded almost into George Street. . The progress of Sydney in 50 years has been amazing. Today great modern buildings tower in the city, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of the finest in the world, provides, quick access to the Northern Suburbs; underground railways, bus, trolley bus, and jtram services provide efficient transi port, and in its facilities for entertain- ■/ ment and tourist attractions the city ranks with most in the r world.