“We are focussing on just one thing,” said South Coast historian and one of the society’s first members, Peter Lacey.

“And that is sharing our incredibly interesting history of the NSW South Coast with more people.”

Mr Lacey said interest in local history had long been largely the preserve of a small number of members of local history societies. 

“There are an enormous number of fascinating stories about the local area, which deserve to be recorded and more widely shared, and now, with the launch of the South Coast History Society, we are striving to do just that,” he said.

The society’s first aim is to publish a free magazine that highlights aspects of the area’s intriguing history.

Also planned is a seminar to be held in February 2017 that explores facets and contributing factors of the region’s history and unique character.

“This seminar will then be followed by a fun history-related event in March that potentially could involve everyone who is living on the NSW South Coast. But the full details of that event will not be released until early 2017,” he said.

“Our philosophy is that our local history really belongs to everybody, so it should be shared with everybody. 

The society is seeking community support, including funding, and will be encouraging its supporters to suggest specific projects to pursue.

The South Coast History Society’s activities will complement and expand on the services currently offered by local museums, genealogy societies and history groups.

“But we will be aiming to excite other, perhaps new, sections of the community such the younger generations and those studying history at school or at university.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the South Coast History Society can register their interest by email to southcoasthistory@yahoo.com.

“We will ensure they are the first to receive information about our first free magazine and events,” Mr Lacey said.