This year, 2026, the Kariong Progress Association celebrates 80 years of serving the community, and a special event was held on Sunday 24 May 2026 at Kariong Progress Hall to celebrate “Kariong then and now” — bringing together past and present to share the stories that have shaped the suburb.
Long-time locals reflected on what it was like growing up in Kariong — from the early days of farms and dirt roads to the vibrant community it is today. There was a commemorative booklet launch, displays of photos and memorabilia, and plenty of opportunities to connect, reminisce and learn more about the place we call home.
In 1954, Kariong was home to a small but determined community working together to build something better. An article from The Gosford Times that year captured the spirit of the place:
Services: The fact that there is a Post Office at Kariong — and electricity, and a convenient bus service, and well formed side roads — is due to the efforts of the 8-year-old Progress Association. Population of Kariong is only 114 — men, women and children — and apart from ‘Floralands’ and the quarry on its outskirts there is only one citrus orchard and two poultry farms. Yet it is a name that is making itself heard more and more often, and further and further afield. One of the most publicised of the association’s ‘town’ functions was the Baby Show in 1952 — such a howling success that it was not a financial success. Matron Shaw, far-famed as the matron of the Crown Street Women’s Hospital, consented to judge the babies, and so many mothers came to stare in admiration at her that they forgot to patronise the stalls.
Flower Show: Last year Kariong Progress Association held a flower show, with a special display by ‘Floralands,’ which was a success in every way. Officers of the Progress Association at present are: President, Mr P. J. Parry; vice presidents, Messrs A. Dibbin, B. Oakes; secretary, Mrs W. Langford; treasurer, Mr W. Langford; publicity officer, Mrs P. J. Parry. The Post Office is on the land originally granted to William Parry, father of P. J. and Henry Parry, and was a stone fruit orchard producing luscious peaches, plums, nectarines and prunes, as well as being a prosperous vegetable farm.
There were four estates in Kariong 50 years ago — MacDowell’s (now subdivided), Topple’s, and William and Henry Parry’s. The 113 acres which comprise ‘Floralands’ were owned by Henry Parry — of quarry fame — before being taken over by P. J. Parry in 1925.
These stories are just a glimpse into the rich and colourful history of Kariong — a history built on community spirit, hard work and connection.
Lisa Bellamy, Kariong Progress Association
