Hidden within the pages of Phillip Island’s history lies the captivating tale of Oswin Roberts Cottage. This wasn’t just any cottage. It was the heart of Broadwater a guesthouse nestled on 2.5 acres. Florence Oswin Roberts better known as Zing bought it in 1912. Her legacy extends far beyond the charming structure.
Oswin Roberts Cottage was more than a home. It was a haven for koalas. Following devastating bushfires in 1939 Zing transformed her guesthouse into a koala hospital. She nursed scores of injured animals back to health. Hammocks were hung in the guest rooms providing comfort for these unique patients.
Zing’s dedication to conservation is legendary. She was the only person legally permitted to keep a koala as a pet. Edward actually a female koala became world famous. Edward even made appearances in Melbourne during the war alongside Zing. This remarkable human-animal bond is memorialized by a plaque dedicated to Edward’s Tree a testament to their unique relationship.
Beyond her koala care Zing was a force of nature. She fearlessly confronted farmers who threatened to cut down trees. Driving her small grey car nicknamed the Beetle she’d arrive in a cloud of dust stopping any act of vandalism. Her courage and convictions were undeniable. She was instrumental in establishing the Phillip Island branch of the Country Women’s Association becoming its first president.
Oswin Roberts Cottage represents more than a building. It embodies a spirit of conservation unwavering dedication and remarkable compassion. It’s a story of one woman’s extraordinary impact. A woman who transformed a simple cottage into a symbol of love and resilience. A legacy that continues to inspire us today. It’s a story that deserves to be told and retold.