27 April 2022
Step back in time and celebrate Stanthorpe’s 150th (S150) birthday with the commemorative re-enactment of its proclamation as a town, thanks to the efforts of the Stanthorpe 150th Celebration Advisory Committee, present-day Southern Downs Councillors, the Stanthorpe Little Theatre and local community groups.
Council will host a free open-air museum aptly entitled From Tin to Town: A Living History of Stanthorpe on Sunday 15 May 2022 which will transport locals and visitors back to 1872 to experience the unique stories of those who made the proud town home.
Stanthorpe’s culturally rich history will come to life with the interactive event and lead the community on a trail of pop-up performances, offering a look into the everyday lives of Stanthorpe residents from yesteryear, from the local magistrate to shop owners, the constable and many more colourful characters.
In anticipation of his role in the milestone re-enactment and to capture the essence of the era, Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi has been growing a beard for the last six months.
“It is with great honour that we come together as a proud community to celebrate the origins of Stanthorpe from the humble establishment of tin mining to the vibrant tourism and agriculture powerhouse we see today,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“History tells the story of where we have come from and it is so important that we don’t forget it or ignore it. If we forget history and only debate the present, we are ignoring our future.
“This significant milestone is a chance to reflect on the past 150 years while coming together as a community to look forward to our next 150 years.
“I would like to personally thank the S150 committee, the Stanthorpe Little Theatre and local community groups who have made this possible and dedicated time and effort to bringing this moment to life.”
Following the re-enactments, enjoy traditional food from the late 1800s as you sit under the iconic Roll Up tree, soak up the sounds of Australiana and join in the bush dance. Bring your own blanket and chair. No ticket registration required.
Event: From Tin to Town: A Living History of Stanthorpe
Date: Sunday 15 May 2022
Time: 3 – 5.30pm
Venue: Stanthorpe Little Theatre, Connor Street, Stanthorpe
Other events in the S150 line-up across 2022 include:
- Heritage Market Day, Stanthorpe Railway Station – 14 May
- A Tin Experience, Amiens Legacy Centre – 21 May
- Italian Community Celebrations, Stanthorpe International Club – 4-5 June
- Granite Belt Art and Craft Trail, 28-30 October
Council is inviting event organisers hosting a commemorative event in 2022 to register their event with Council so it can be promoted on the official S150 online events calendar at: southerndownsandgranitebelt.com.au/Stanthorpe150.
The S150 logo, designed by Stanthorpe’s own Jennie Wardle, is also available for use to registered event organisers.
Last edited date 27 Apr 2022