1938 - 2018

Ernie Page, a beloved figure in Bondi's history, dedicated his life to public service and community welfare. Born in Parramatta in 1935, Ernie's early years were shaped by his Catholic Schooling in Malabar before he moved on to St Joseph's at Hunter Hill. His academic journey took him to the University of New South Wales, where he studied engineering and Commerce before beginning a career in the electricity industry. However, Ernie’s true calling was politics.

In December 1962, at just 27, Ernie was elected as a Waverley Councillor. His tenure as a local leader spanned over two decades, during which he served as both Mayor and Councillor. He served as Mayor for 9 years while simultaneously sitting in the New South Wales Parliament, a remarkable feat of organisation and dedication. He was a pivotal force in local government, advocating for reforms that would benefit disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. Among his many contributions, Ernie championed childcare reforms to support working women, foster children and pushed for social housing initiatives, the legacy of these initiatives are still visible in Bondi today. He was also an advocate for the Arts fighting for the Bondi Pavilion and against privatisation of the beachside location. 

In 1981, Ernie's dedication led him to the NSW Parliament as the Member for Waverley, later transitioning to the seat of Coogee in 1991. From 1995 to 1999 he was Minister for Local Government in Bob Carr’s first Labor Government, among his many achievements, he was instrumental in supporting Bob Carr’s Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, a project that has become a cherished local landmark. Here, he also introduced ecological and environmental reporting, protected community land and introduced laws requiring councils to consent to principals of cultural diversity. Ernie’s vision extended beyond the conventional scope of local government. He viewed it as a tool for progressive change, aimed at improving the lives of ordinary people and those less fortunate – far beyond the typical scope of roads, rates and rubbish.

One of his most lasting legacies was the establishment of Waverley’s first public library. In collaboration with his friend Ron Lander, Ernie transformed an old bowling alley in Bondi Junction into a vibrant community resource. This library became a cornerstone of the community, and in 1999, a new purpose-built facility was opened, symbolising his commitment to public education and cultural enrichment.

Speaking in the NSW Legislative Assembly on a bill that Ernie argued would dilute guaranteed free access to library resources Ernie said:

“Freedom of equity of access to the public library is essential to the democratic process and to the social and economic welfare of the community.  This freedom can be inhibited as much by poverty as by censorship.”

Ernie Page retired from the NSW Parliament in 2003 and was honoured with an Order of Australia Medal in 2006 for his service. He passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, progress, and dedication to his community.

Images courtesy the Waverley Library Local Studies Collection.