History with Betty Laver – Gladstone Centenary Celebrations

On 17^th April 1954, the centenary of Gladstone celebrations took place at Barney Point, the exact spot where the first settlers landed on 30^th March 1854. A public holiday was granted for the occasion and about 4,000 people watched a re-enactment of O’Connell’s landing and Fitzroy’s proclamation of residency. These gala festivities were followed by a dinner in the town hall funded by the council. During the pioneers’ dinner, Alderman Golding presented the council with framed photographs of Barney, O’Connell and Fitzroy. Artist Cliff Olsen presented the council with one of his paintings, illustrating the landing of Sir Charles Fitzroy and party in 1854.