Margaret Sparks

The Downes of the Byron Evolution Margaret Sparks

Come with me for romp in the Gondwana forests and Cape Byron to read the story of the Downes family. This family migrated from the emerald folds of Mother England to Australia in 1914. In Perth my Grandfather Carl met a fellow Englishman Anthony and as fate would have it they found A. W. Argyle company. It was the beginning of their Empire in the Pastoral Industry when they purchased the Byron Bay Meatworks in 1929 at the end of The Great Depression. The first generation of the Downes family settled in the Byron Shire where their children, the second generation went to school, worked in the family company, married and raised their children who are the third generation. During World War II invasion of Byron Bay threatened however soon after America entering the War Peace was declared and The Golden Age of Australia began. I am of the third generation and lived in Byron Bay during the roaring 60's when it became a mecca for musicians and surfing. My children are of the fourth generation and were born in the 70's and great social and economic changes occurred. I tell of the changes occurring up till 2014 and some surprising facts from research the family tree. I hope you enjoy reading my book and come join us soon in our PARADISE.