The
CLERMONT RAG Community Newsletter Friday July 14, 2017
Iconic piece steams to life at Clermont History came to life with the momentous steaming of an iconic piece of machinery at the Clermont Historical Centre Open Day on Saturday July 1. Up to 1000 residents and visitors had a chance to witness living history with the Aveling & Porter steam engine steaming for the first time since 2002. From wandering through the market stalls and reliving the courage, heroism and tragedy in the Centre’s A Flood of Memories exhibition, there was something for everyone.
“It is a credit to Jennifer Clark, Debbie Alvoen and their team at Clermont Historical Centre who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring this wonderful event to life,” Mayor Baker said. “I’d also like to acknowledge the Clermont Historical Centre Advisory Committee, particularly Jo Knobel for her efforts in organising activities for the day.”
Division 6 Councillor Lynette Jones, who officially opened the event, hailed the Clermont event as a success.
Missed the Clermont Historical Centre Community Open Day? There’s still time to explore the exhibition – A Flood of Memories.
“Locals and visitors had plenty to do, see, taste and learn and I hope everyone walked away from this day with a greater understanding of why history is so important in the way we shape our future,” Cr Jones said.
More than 60 people lost their lives in floodwaters after a tropical cyclone crossed through the Whitsunday passage in December 1916.
“More than 500 hours volunteer hours have been dedicated to restoring the steam engine which was one of two that moved Clermont after the 1916 Flood. “Kev Fry, Robert Kluck, Phil Ryder, Clinton Gillies, Jim Brent, Brock Ryder and Darren Whittington volunteered their time or services in some capacity to bring this engine back to life once again.” Mayor Anne Baker said Clermont Historical Centre has a real role to play in being a drawcard for tourism in our region.
View the commemorative 1916 Flood exhibition A Flood of Memories which runs until December 2017. The big events in Isaac keep on coming with the Queensland Music Festival’s The Power Within on July 28-29 in Moranbah - featuring talented locals from Clermont. For more information visit www.isaac.qld.gov.au, phone 1300 ISAACS (1300 472 227) or visit an Isaac Regional Council office.
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