Development

Created in 1984, the estate has become an important part of the Eurobodalla Shire

Over 400 homes have been built since the first stage of this development. The developers have always worked towards providing the best opportunities for the Sunshine Bay community. Careful consideration has been given to the design and planning of key infrastructure. Below the overall map is a description of the exciting developments and history of Sunshine Bay Estate.

Explorers Park
In recognition of the community spirit of Sunshine Bay, the developers have dedicated Explorers Park as the latest addition to the estate's reserve areas. A morning tea was held to present awards for the 2005 Garden Competition and unveil the new sign and seat at Explorers Park. The Pictorial History and Explorers sign is an introduction to the history of this wonderful suburbe and an overview of exploration in Australia, including the pioneers that Sunshine Bay's streets are named in honour of. Explorers Park is a great place for the kids to play and for family, friends and community to enjoy.

Welcome CWA!

Welcome to the CWA, wonderful community members and neighbours. The Batemans Bay Branch of the Country Womens Association celebrated the opening of their new hall on 7 March, 2004. Located on the corner of Edward Road and Gibson Place, the hall has already become a valuable community asset.

James Deane Reserve
The James Deane Reserve was officially opened on 25 October, 2003. Situated on the corner of Sunshine Bay Road and Canning Crescent, the park is dedicated to Mr James Deane, the man who made the development of Sunshine Bay possible.

Mr Peter Pritchett, Subdivisional Officer for Eurobodalla Shire Council, officially opened James Deane Reserve on 25 October, 2003. Peter Pritchett worked closely with James Deane on the development of Sunshine Bay from its inception.

Family and friends gathered to celebrate and to pay tribute. For most it was their first look at Sunshine Bay, James' last and most successful develoment and were amazed to find such beauty. We would like to thank the people of Sunshine Bay for their tireless efforts to keep Sunshine Bay picturesque.

Above, left: Peter Pritchett and Julie Deane unveil the commemorative stone at James Deane Reserve

More about James Deane

James Deane was a quiet achiever who had a vision for land development and worked diligently to create places for homes to be built and for communities to grow. Always thoughtful of the environmental issues regarding development, James strove to ensure that designs lent toward the surroundings.

Knowledgeable in environmental law, James was Treasurer of the Urban Development Institute of Australia for over 15 years. He worked closely with Ministers and their departments to develop guidelines for urban planning that are still in place today.

Sunshine Bay Estate stands as the embodiment of James Deane's vision and life's work.

Right: James Deane, centre, with wife, Julie and Bob Smith, UDIA associate.

Left: Janet Righetti, UDIA Secretary, James Deane, UDIA Treasurer, and Hon. Eric Bedford, then NSW Minister for Planning, at the UDIA National Congress, 1983.

Associate dedication

Jim was remarkable in his integrity and dedication through good and very difficult times. This trait in his business life was reflected in his support and considerable contribution to the development industry generally, and the UDIA in particular.
His (UDIA) Developer's Digest Newsletter was legendary and though provocative, his forthright and incisive remarks created robust and useful debate. He captured also the attention of those in the public sector, who respected and responded to his integrity.
It was a privilege to know Jim, and I was always appreciative of his great kindness and support.
He certainly adored his devoted family and we are full of admiration for you Julie, and also Elizabeth and Luke.

Janet Righetti, former Secretary of the UDIA.