FROM the days when Drovers used to advertise, to the introduction of new listings for Paintball Skirmish and Pilates, changes to categories in the Bega White Pages and Yellow Pages Book reveal how the local region has evolved over the years.
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The evolution will continue later this month when distribution of the new compact-size Bega phone book starts.
Known as the ACT - South Coast and Southern Tablelands Districts telephone directory in its early days, the Bega phone book has changed dramatically over the years.
In 1952, an advertisement for Cooper Sheep Dips appeared on the cover and the book consisted of 105 pages of residential listings and 32 advertising pages, which were known as the Pink Pages.
Crumpet Makers and Putty Manufacturers were listed in the 1952 Bega phone directory, only to be taken out a few years later.
In 1972, today’s Gift Shops were advertised under Fancy Goods, while our Podiatrists were known as Chiropodists back then.
“Early phone books in Australia included listings for Asbestos Manufacturers and Mulesing Consultants, but these are two categories that no longer exist,” Sensis Group product manager Jane Blackley said.
“Today, we’re seeing more health and beauty, green and IT-related industries featured.”
Current copies of the book include categories such as Asbestos Removal and Treatment, Clairvoyance, Jet Propelled Skis and Personal Fitness Trainer businesses – back in 1972 these advertising categories hadn’t even been created!
Since 1992, the number of listings in the book under Solar Energy has increased from 10 to 16.
In the same time, the number of Marriage Counselling listings has doubled from six to around 12.
Over time, people’s needs have also changed with most people now preferring to use a book that isn’t as big and is easier to handle.
This has been the biggest criticism of the book, which is why the decision has been made to standardise the format of every phone book and reduce the height and width by 15 per cent, so they’re more convenient to use.
“We’ve listened to that feedback and come up with a new format that meets users’ changing needs, while ensuring the book contains the same comprehensive content that everyone can rely on,” Ms Blackley said.
“There are also a number of design improvements that make it easier to find contact information for local people, businesses and government organisations.”
To ensure White Pages content is accessible to all Australians, there are a number of different ways people who are visually impaired or who have low vision can access it.
These services are outlined in the White Pages accessibility guide, which is available by emailing wpcommunity@sensis.com.au.
Sensis has extended an existing Telstra program to offer free magnifying aids to people who seek further support when they use the directories.
These magnifying aids have been available for many years to assist users. Orders can be placed by ringing 1800 625 944 or by emailing magnifier@sensis .com.au.
The new-look Bega White Pages and Yellow Pages phone book will be released on May 26.
The subject for the cover will be revealed on May 24.
