IT was 192 years ago today that Newcastle's economy was born when then Governor Lachlan Macquarie laid the foundation stone for Macquarie Pier.
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That connection, now known as Nobbys breakwall, linked Nobbys island to the mainland and provided a safe passage into the harbour where coal, lime and timber was loaded onto ships for export.
Yesterday, that foresight was honoured with the unveiling at Nobbys surf club of a commemorative plaque to be laid where pier stonework began.
Newcastle's Coal River Working Party organised yesterday's event, ahead of mission to find the original foundation stone that Governor Macquarie laid.
NSW Governor Marie Bashir attended the unveiling to honour the work of her predecessor.
She said Governor Macquarie made an enormous contribution to the nation, something that the people of the Hunter continued to do.
"I feel most moved and privileged to be participating today with you all," she said.
"We will be unveiling this tribute not only to those that have gone before but to the people of Newcastle who value so strongly their heritage."
Coal River Working Party chairman Gionni Di Gravio said the historical acknowledgment would have meaning for generations to come.
"In order to create a future for our young we need to recognise the accomplishments of the past," he said.