In 1977, artist Annette Meikle undertook a commission to illustrate a book recording stories of places and people in the Bayside area. It was published in 1978 as Sandringham Sketchbook, with text by Elizabeth Waters. The sketches were intended to record remaining examples of Bayside’s early architecture and environment, as well as reflect newer architectural changes. Meikle went on to donate 22 of these sketches to Bayside City Council in 2003. An area of natural bushland on Haydens Road, Beaumaris, was set aside in the early twentieth century as a reserve in memory of journalist and naturalist Donald MacDonald (c. 1859 – 1932). MacDonald was trained as a teacher but became a journalist for The Argus and The Australasian, working as a war correspondent, cricket commentator and nature writer. In 1900 he began the popular Argus column Nature notes and queries. Part of the Donald MacDonald Reserve was later cleared for an oval, a club pavilion and a scouts hall. Annette Meikle, Donald MacDonald Reserve 1977, ink and watercolour, 35.9 x 25.5 cm. Bayside City Council Art and Heritage Collection. Donated by the artist, 2003annette meikle, sandringham sketchbook, elizabeth waters, donald macdonald reserve, donald macdonald, journalist, naturalist, oval, sports pavilion, beaumaris