A Wonderful Celebration
We are the family of Barbara and Harold Browning who settled in Esperance in February 1960. Harold is the son of Charles John and Phyllis Browning of “Yowadda”, Kondinin WA. Barbara is the daughter of David and Phyllis Mary John from “The Junction” Boddington. WA. Both Harold and Barbara were born in WA and so was Barbara's mother Phyllis.
Barbara and Harold are now deceased and this site will be a collection of photos and yarns from the early years at “Yowadda” the family farm at Gibson (north of Esperance). Given that more than 40 years and seven kids are involved it could take some telling and re-telling! Harold was larger than life and we think he’d fitted his “three score and ten years” into 59 when he passed away. He had pioneering blood, like his parents, and loved life at Esperance. It offered many rich and rewarding experiences and wonderful friendships. Barbara, his wife and partner, had a wonderful sense of humour and could often see the funny side of things long before Harold could. She was a tireless participant in family and community life. She too, attracted many wonderful friends. They were keen sailors in their recreation and many, many wonderful years were spent sailing the waters of the Recherche Archipelago, and messing about in boats with their friends at the Esperance Bay Yacht Club.
Of course they were human beings with the usual supply of human frailtles. The stories and reflections which will no doubt make their way onto this site while filled with love and admiration will surely contain references to both their fine and more entertaining human qualities which afforded us much humour over the years. We all loved them deeply. We maintain a strong family connection despite the varied locations in which we all now find ourselves. Christmas at Esperance is a four yearly feat which grows in its joy with each passing year.
The great thing about a project like this is that if anything is innacurate you have only to complete the Contact Form and I'll add or amend it!