Nestled along the serene banks of the Wingecarribee River lies a captivating chapter of Berrima’s history, hidden in plain sight. The Berrima River Walk invites you to step back in time to World War I, when German merchant seamen, detained in Berrima from 1915 to 1919, left their mark on this tranquil landscape.
As you embark on this 1.8-kilometre journey, marked by interpretative signs, you’ll uncover the remarkable story of these internees and their incredible ingenuity. The easy bush walk meanders downstream from the Berrima camping ground, showcasing seventeen points of interest adorned with photographs and stories of the past.
Unique among Australian WWI internment camps, Berrima allowed its 300 German internees an unusual degree of freedom. These men, including merchant naval captains, senior officers, and executives from German shipping companies, were confined to the gaol only at night. During the day, from 6 am to 6:30 pm, they roamed freely, mingling with villagers and engaging in various pursuits.
Their industrious spirit soon transformed the Wingecarribee River into a vibrant hub of activity. The internees constructed a bridge and dammed the river to create suitable depths for their aquatic ventures. Along the banks, they built an array of structures—from simple brush huts to elaborate log villas and gardens.
Boat building became a favourite pastime, with materials sourced from bush timber and scrap metal. Their imaginative creations, including a four-masted barque, a Zeppelin, and a replica of the Kaiser’s yacht, turned regattas into grand spectacles that drew villagers and guards alike.
Within the gaol, the internees’ creativity flourished in other ways. They established a theatre, putting on plays, revues, and concerts every fortnight, enriching their confined lives with culture and camaraderie.
Following their departure in 1919, nature reclaimed the riverbanks, and the internees’ constructions faded into memory. However, in 1998, the National Trust, with the help of local volunteers, began a restoration project. They cleared the river and banks, uncovering remnants of the past and replanting with native species, a task that continued until 2009.
Today, the Berrima River Walk stands as a testament to this unique wartime story. It’s a local initiative aimed at enriching visitor experiences and shedding light on one of the few positive tales from WWI. To delve deeper into this history, visit the Berrima District Museum , where you can find the book “Prisoners in Arcady” by John Simons and view an exhibition and short film about the internees.
Length: 1.8 km (Allow 1 hour return)
Surface: Reasonably level with slight grades; path can be uneven and slippery when wet
Footwear: Flat walking shoes recommended
Explore the Berrima River Walk and let the whispers of history guide your steps through this enchanting journey.