The Northbridge Progress Association was formed in November 1919 with W. Mulholland as its first president. The first and some subsequent meetings were held in the home of Frederick John Timms in Harden Ave, Northbridge, and later in 1920 in ‘The Garrick’, a playhouse and meeting hall on his property.

The Association promptly compiled a Constitution that provided for an executive of a President, two Vice-presidents, Treasurer, Secretary, Assistant Secretary and a Committee not exceeding eight ordinary members. Seven members were to constitute a forum at both General and Executive meetings. Monthly meetings were to be held and the object of the Association would be “to do everything possible to further the interests of the district of Northbridge”. The Association was to be non-sectarian and non-political.

In the early 1920s the Association formed a Dramatic Company which performed at ‘The Garrick’ under the direction of T.G. (Edgar) Hoskins who was made an honorary Life Member of the Association. Proceeds were exclusively for the development of the infant suburb.

In 1938, an East Northbridge Progress Association was formed to give closer attention to the precinct east of Northbridge Public School, where problems of transport, sewerage, roads, etc, needed urgent action. A newspaper cutting reported that the first meeting was held in the original dwelling of estate agent W. Poole, on the corner of Woonona Rd and Sailors Bay Rd, then a general store, refreshment room and estate agency. After the 1950s, the East Northbridge Progress Association was amalgamated with the Northbridge Progress Association.

In 1941, Northbridge’s representation on Willoughby Council was strengthened by the creation of a Northbridge Ward with the privilege of electing three aldermen to represent it on Council. This event greatly extended the activities and responsibilities of the Northbridge Progress Association. 

The Northbridge Progress Association has been an effective and useful Association since its inception. It has been the articulate voice of the people of Northbridge and can be justly proud of its achievements.

Adapted from The Suburb of Northbridge: A community history compiled by Esther Leslie for the Bicentennial Community Committee, Sydney, 1988