Having moved to Karuah in 2004 with wife Marianne, the former principal of Bulahdelah Central School struck up conversation with oyster farmers Trevor Barclay, Bill Neil and Gordon Latimore.

The men told Mr Benson about the history behind the Australian Agricultural Company (AACo) track which, until the 1950s, had been the main road between the two towns.

‘‘Local lads had ridden across it daily with mail and newspapers and shopping, riding five kilometres each way after school,’’ Mr Benson said.

His research on the AACo track revealed its unique history.

‘‘It followed an ancient Aboriginal initiation trail,’’ Mr Benson said. 

‘‘It still follows the original path from 1826 when it was built by convicts employed by the Australian Agricultural Company.’’

He also discovered the remains of the first AACo farm just north of the road. 

Excited and fascinated with what he had found, Mr Benson collated his research into a booklet released last Wednesday. Walk Along the Old AACo Road from Karuah to Tahlee will be used as a guide for walkers on the annual Walk to Tahlee.

This year’s walk will be held on Sunday, April 19.

Bookings can be made by emailing alcedo3@bigpond.com.

For more information visit aacoroad.com. Mr Benson said the booklet would also also serve as a valuable history resource for people interested in the AACo and its establishment at Tahlee.