New interpretive signs have been installed at the Camden Head Pilot Station, funded by the Kendall Community Op Shop. 

Station manager Ross Butlin said the location continues to maintain its tradition with keeping up with technology.

“It was one of the first places to be connected to the telephone, to electricity and the Pilot was the early official Postmaster for the Camden Haven.

“The entrance to the Camden Haven was the lifeblood for the emerging townships in the early years of European settlement in the region,” he said. 

Mr Butlin said the new signs give a brief overview of the history of the Pilot Station, from its official gazetting in 1878 to its present day usage.

“They are a first in a series that will allow visitors and locals to develop an appreciation of the history and the changes in usage of area,” he said. 

“The signs come with QR Codes which allow a code to be scanned by mobiles which will take people to our website for more detailed information.

“This allows us to update information as complete more research.”

Mr Butlin said the digitalisation of records has uncovered some interesting aspects of the Pilot Station. 

“In the early 1900s the Pilot was also the postmaster for the district, accepting the mail brought by ship and then taking to the post office in Laurieton,” he said. 

“Some observant people will notice that the sign’s heading is for the Camden Haven Pilot Station, not Camden Head.

“Early records show it as Camden Haven but sometime it has changed to Camden Head Pilot Station.” 

Mr Butlin thanked the Kendall Community Op Shop, the Historical Society and volunteer Pam Vine, who uncovered a trove of information.

Pilot Station is used for holiday accommodation, artist in residence programs, supporting local education and has an active landcare program.