The Settlers around Mary Lake arrived in the early 1870s. Unlike many of the settlers of the day, most of these families came by steamship and were from well-educated middle class families. They soon formed a dynamic community around the lake that was focused on Port Sydney. Their concerts, readings, sports and social life were unique. These people intermarried and formed a society that is still strong and has made Port Sydney a special community.

The authors prepared this book through hours of interviews with older members of the area. These older people provided invaluable pictures, information, anecdotes and insights into the lives of their parents and grandparents. The book is a window through which the reader can identify with this life around beautiful Mary Lake.