THE “Broughton Islands” were named after Captain William Broughton, whose first visit to our coastline was in August 1795 when he sought shelter, during adverse weather, in the lee of the islands near the entrance to Port Stephens on board HMS Providence.
The name “Broughton Islands” appears to have been adopted by the 1860s with reference to the main island and the cluster of smaller islands and rocky outcrops that form the group.
The largest land form in the group is now known as Broughton Island and the outcrops have been given their own identity including Cod Rock, North Rock, East Head or Little Broughton, Snapper Rock and the majestic Looking Glass, originally known as South Rock.
A projecting headland on the mainland coast, closest to the island, is now named the Little Gibber, once known as Dark Point.
This all may seem confusing to the reader however for those who are regular visitors to the island, the names are well known and generally relate to where the fish are biting.
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
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