Currie Park celebrates 150 Years with theatre, music and old-fashioned games

Currie Park is gearing up for an afternoon of family fun, music, and entertainment to mark the Old Colonists’ Association of Victoria’s 150th celebrations on Saturday 23 November.

The celebrations begin at 12noon with a traditional smoking ceremony, formalities and the burial of a time capsule, Currie Park’s celebration is all about showcasing the very best that the retirement village and the Euroa community has to offer.

Music, history, dance and afternoon tea are all in the mix for what should make for a celebration to remember by all, according to Ellen Doyle, the Residents’ 150th Anniversary Coordinator.

The Euroa Citizens’ Band will set the mood for the afternoon, with pop up acts from the Euroa Little Theatre Group and the Euroa Ukele Band around the village. Local entertainer Greg Dudley will add to the musical vibes.

“We are thrilled that so many local groups are taking part in our 150th celebrations because Currie Park is all about community. Many residents are active in Euroa, either as volunteers or making the most of our wonderful country town,” Ellen Doyle said.

Lovers of traditional afternoon tea will not miss out – the local CWA is making delicious sandwiches and cakes especially for the occasion, while a BBQ will be charged for those who love a sausage sandwich.

Ellen Doyle said that one of the highlights will be the history exhibition Beyond the Gate which will introduce visitors to the bold vision of the founders of the Old Colonists’ Association of Victoria, and how local philanthropist Ian Rollo Currie followed their vision by his gift of money to establish Currie Park.

“History is important to us. OCAV was founded 150 years ago by George Coppin, one of Victoria’s first colonists. He, together with other wealthy founding families, set up the Association to provide houses and care for other less well-off colonists, and they have been doing it ever since,” Ellen said.

“It is a remarkable story, and the Association is as needed now more than ever because of the dire need for safe, affordable housing for older people in Victoria,” she added.

House tours will be offered twice during the afternoon. The tours are free and limited to 10 people. Bookings are essential.

Another highlight, among the many activities, is learning more about the wonderful Edible Garden, built with funds from the J T Reid Charitable Foundation. The garden provides vegetables for our residents. Around 100 plants will be available to buy, especially propagated by our resident green thumbs.

Parking is via Boundary Road South.

The Currie Park celebration is free but bookings for house tours are essential: https://www.trybooking.com/BEUXX

More information: https://aboundcommunities.org.au/news-events/currie-park-events/

The celebration is on:
Saturday 23 November, 12 noon – 3.30pm
58 Weir Street Euroa Vic 3666