By Dominique Tassell
Updates on Stanthorpe 150 celebrations were noted in a report at the first ordinary council meeting of the year.
Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) noted the minutes of the Stanthorpe 150th Anniversary Celebration Advisory Committee (S150ACAC) Meeting held on 11 January 2022.
SDRC also endorsed the S150ACAC recommendation that SDRC consider the use of the SDRC billboards situated at the northern and southern entrances to Stanthorpe to market the S150 anniversary celebrations.
There is currently a budget allocation of $20,000 for S150 activities. However, this budget allocation also needs to cover costs associated with council’s own S150 event.
The economic development unit has a budget allocation and plans for re-skinning of the billboards for regional promotion in the 2021/2022 financial year.
In the meeting minutes, it was stated that Mary Findlay referred to the discussion about having an event at the Stanthorpe Railway Station as a formal re-enactment and noted the importance of the whistle stop building which is of the period.
SDRC Mayor Vic Pennisi confirmed that council officers are looking into doing a re-enactment.
It was noted that Stanthorpe Little Theatre has discussed having a “living museum” that would incorporate the Proclamation of Stanthorpe (by the Mayor) and the inclusion ofcouncillors woven into the event.
It was also noted that a promising proposal to a public art project had been received, and discussions were underway with the artist.
Another committee member noted they would like to receive more applications.
Regarding other events, it was noted that many groups may be hesitant to confirm any plans due to Covid-19.
It was also noted that the Governor of Queensland has committed to attending the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival Ball and Grand Parade. The Governor and Queensland Surveyor-General were also discussed as possibly needing an invite.
A week-long festival is being proposed from 13 to 22 May 2022, though this is not confirmed.
The motion to note the minutes was moved by Cr Marco Gliori and seconded by Cr Cynthia McDonald.
