Willoughby City Council

Did the land beneath Willoughby City Council always hold skyscrapers and bustling commercial centers? No. In 1865, this area wasn’t the City of Willoughby. It was the Municipality of North Willoughby, a rural district. Sixty-seven residents petitioned Governor Sir John Young, leading to its official proclamation on October 23, 1865. The first council meeting took place not in a grand hall, but in a humble hut behind the home of James Harris French, a prominent timber merchant and landowner. Willoughby City Council’s journey began there. French’s house, at the corner of Penshurst and Penkivil Streets, served as the first meeting place. Later, municipal offices were established on Penshurst Street near Forsyth Street. In 1877, the Council Chambers moved to the old School of Arts building in Mowbray Road. This building later became part of Mowbray House School. Fast forward to 1903, and a grand Town Hall designed by Byera Hadley graced Victoria Avenue, officially opened by Premier Sir John See. This first town hall stood until 1969, making way for the current Willoughby Civic Centre. The City of Willoughby wasn’t always a city. The area transitioned from Municipality to Borough and finally achieved city status on November 17, 1989. The council’s story also intertwines with indigenous heritage. In 2022, Willoughby City Council returned Talus Street Reserve in Naremburn to the Local Aboriginal Land Council. This land, originally Gammeraygal land, holds significance as a step towards reconciliation and recognition of Aboriginal Land Rights. From a hut to a civic centre, Willoughby City Council reflects a history of growth and transformation, blending indigenous heritage with ongoing development.