It has connected more than 11,000 people across the globe, been used as an educational tool, sparked romances and continues to grow at about 10 new members a day.
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The You Know You’re From Maitland Facebook page was launched in April 2014 and, 15-months on, has gained more recognition and followers than instigator Aaron Golledge could have ever imagined.
From a humble study nook in his Aberglasslyn home, Mr Golledge has created a phenomenon that other towns and cities want to copy, but he said the most rewarding aspect of the page is the satisfaction of knowing it has brought people together to reminisce about his home town.
On average, 10 people a day are joining the page, with the Hunter super storm in April recording a massive 1000 new followers in one week.
“The page is now more active than ever,” Mr Golledge said.
“We have some wonderful contributors like Charles Winchester, who is a wealth of knowledge on Maitland’s history, particularly businesses.
“Local history buff and photographer Peter Smith has also had a hand in many posts and put up some wonderful pics of an otherwise unseen Maitland history.”
Mr Golledge said followers came from the immediate Maitland area, across Australia and a few internationals, most of whom have some connection with the city.
Followers range in age from high school students to people in their 80s and 90s.
“I’ve had messages from their sons and daughters telling me their mums and dads joined Facebook just to get on the Maitland page,” Mr Golledge said.
He said some of the most popular posts were about local Rugby League history, his dad, Dick Golledge, a well-known local identity, and Maitland ghost stories.
“When I started the page it was initially to have a bit of fun,” Mr Golledge said.
“I wanted it to be a non-threatening, positive forum and not a forum to have a whinge and through my awesome team of admins (Karen Golledge, Sandy Miles, Louise Trappel-Bedford, Mary Morgan and Johnny Palooka) we have achieved this.
“The page has revealed to me just how much positive community spirit has always been bubbling just below the surface of our great city.
“The people of Maitland are diverse, but one.
“Most are passionate about this wonderful city and Maitland people are proud of themselves, their heritage, they love their sport and a catch up.”
And how much longer will the page keep on rolling?
“For as long as it takes, otherwise I think I’d be run out of town,” Mr Golledge said.
You Know You’re From Maitland fast facts:
- Page started – April 2014.
- Members – 11,000 and growing weekly.
- Most popular posts – Maitland history/Do You Remember?
- Most controversial posts – The Levee.
- International members from – US, UK, Europe.
- Other regions using Maitland page as a model – Gold Coast.
