This series aims to document the memories of Kevin Richardson, a man whose life is intertwined with the history of Jamberoo. Kevin's recollections not only preserve the vibrant character of the Jamberoo Dairy Factory and its people but also offer a glimpse into a time when community spirit and innovation shaped the town’s identity.

These narratives build upon the earlier story published in The Bugle titled Kevin Richardson and Geoff Boxsell changed the way we spread. 

Kevin Richardson began his journey at the Jamberoo Dairy Factory as a 15-year-old and quickly rose to manage the laboratory. Now, in his eighties, he reflects on a career steeped in innovation, community, and determination. From helping the factory win accolades for the best dairy product in Australia, to co-inventing spreadable butter in the 1970s, Kevin’s stories are woven with the fabric of a once-thriving dairy industry and its unique characters.

"Looking back now, it was a different world," Kevin reminisces, gazing across the swamp where abandoned dairies tell stories of a bygone era. “Regulations and modern expectations would never allow some of what we did, like kids joining the milk tanker drivers on their milk collection runs.

The dairies on the Terragong Swamp have long been abandoned. Photographer Linda Faiers

Back then navigating the floods on the swamp to pick up the milk took a lot of local knowledge and community. Local knowledge included being aware that if you couldn’t see the white guide posts on the side of the road, then it was time to turn back,” he laughs.

The factory wasn’t just a workplace but a hub of activity for families. During school holidays, children would tag along with their parents, learning firsthand about the workplace that sustained their community. Kevin’s pride in those days is palpable, especially when recounting how the factory was the heart of Jamberoo life.

Although the number of dairies in the region has declined from 96 to 21, Kevin emphasises that the industry is still thriving. He acknowledges the challenges posed by urbanisation and notes that much of the land used by dairy farmers is owned by land bankers. Despite these pressures, the determination of local farmers ensures that milk production remains a vital part of Jamberoo’s identity.

Among the tales of camaraderie Kevin shares anecdotes of the colourful personalities who brought the town to life.

One such character was Reggie “Wildcat” Jones with a penchant for mischief. Known for bringing his bull to the pub and mowing lawns in unconventional ways, Wildcat’s antics are legendary. Kevin recalls, “He once started a mower and stormed through the Jamberoo Pub bar, scattering patrons onto the counters. He then just turned it off and walked away like nothing happened.”

Ellis Cady and Reg (Wildcat) Jones with Reg's Prize Bull who often graced the bar at the Jamberoo Hotel

Then there was “Doc” Tate, a towering figure with a knack of keeping the schoolchildren on their toes as he rode his tiny piebald pony up Churchill Street past the school, cracking his whip. Though his real name remains a mystery, Kevin speculates, “He might’ve been called ‘Doc’ because of his skill with horses. He commanded so much respect, or maybe fear, that no one dared question him.” Doc’s whip and imposing presence ensured he left a lasting impression on everyone in the valley.

In the words of local historian Clive Emery “Doc was a man as long as an oak tree, whose feet were inches from the ground when mounted on his taffy pony.

His whip was carried over his right shoulder at all times, and he wore a large, wide-brimmed hat.

It is said these were the first things he put on each morning and the last things removed before bed! “      

Gypsy Jack was another notable character. He lived in a small shack behind Mrs. Jones’s house and worked as the local gravedigger. Reg Jones, (“Wildcat”), also lived with Lily Jones, making her home a gathering place for Jamberoo’s most colourful personalities. 

Patrons at the pub could look out the window and watch Mrs. Jones helping Gypsy remove his Wellington boots. Kevin vividly remembers, "She’d tug on the boots, tumble backward, and get right back up to try again. It was hilarious to watch."

Kevin has many more great stories to tell, each one a vivid window into Jamberoo's rich history.

Lily Jones house of colourful characters adjoined Jamberoo Hotel

Watch this space for more of Kevin’s incredible memories and anecdotes.