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Charters Towers celebrates its rich history

Queensland's Charters Towers recently celebrated its 125th anniversary of the discovery of gold. Discovered in 1872, the district was transformed virtually overnight from a quiet pastoral region to a bustling metropolis as people flocked from around the world to try their luck on the goldfields.

Just five years later, in June 1877, the first Council meeting was held beginning a long tradition of local democracy. To commemorate the anniversary, the City staged Back to Charters Towers Week from 25 May to 1 June. Events included the opening of a new Tourist Information Centre, tours of historic sites, photographic displays, street parades, and concerts including traditional aboriginal music of the district.

The week of celebrations brought local people, visitors and returnees together to celebrate the area's rich history and enjoy the fun. In the Grand Parade, the largest held in the City's history, organisers estimated half the town watched the event while the other half participated in the parade. Many spectators sported 19th century fashion.

Councillors got into the spirit of fun, holding their scheduled Council meeting that week in period costume. The Week was hailed as a great success by Mayor Brian Beveridge. Serving to develop a sense of pride in the City, it encouraged the community to relax and enjoy the City's many attractions as well as opening up new opportunities for tourist development.

Named after George Foy, a retired railway man who involved himself heavily in providing help for poor families in the district, the renovated Tourist Information Centre housed in one of the City's oldest buildings is set to manage the many tourist activities highlighted during the celebrations.

For further information contact John Wehlow CEO, telephone (077) 87 1999.

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