Contented Crusoe Of Scotland Islands

Northern Advocate, 31 May 1937, Page 10

Contented Crusoe Of Scotland Islands

•> ' / The loneliest man near Sydney is Mr Richard Empey, sole inhabitant of Scotland Island, Pittwater, 20 miles from the city. He has lived alone as caretaker of an unoccupied house on the island for the last seven and a half years. Two cats, Poodles, black, and Mick, mouse-coloured, are his only companions, “It’s a treat to meet a human being,” said Mr Empey when visited. Scotland Island was explored by Governor Phillip, and once, it is said, bush-rangers buried stolen gold there. While on Scotland Island, Mr Empey has built a beautiful terraced garden.

“I grow all tropical fruits here, and get my water from tanks,” he said.

A motor launch from Church Point calls daily at his small jetty. i He said he had had the “Daily Telegraph” sent to him with his provisions and equipment every day of his exile. “I have no radio, telephone, or any modern contraption, but I like to know how the rest of the world is getting on,” he said. Asked if he were happy as a modern Crusoe, he said; “I am perfectly happy here. I do not like the bustle, noise and rushing of the cities.” There is a cloud on Mr Empey’s horizon. The house which he looks after is for sale, and he does not know whether the new owner will want a caretaker.