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Looking Back 2.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, April 1932
Golf Season Opens
As if to reveal the game in its most favourable light, the links looked their best on Saturday, the occasion being the commencement of the Allora Golf Club’s new season. The fairways were covered with a short thick matting of clover and the greens had been beautifully prepared for the afternoon’s play. Adding splashes of colour to the verdant landscape, marking flags in the club’s colours, purple and gold, fluttered on each green.
In the presence of members, associates and visitors numbering 50, the Hon. W. A. Deacon, Minister for Lands, declared the links open for the 1932-33 season. The club president, Mr. A. Lickess, invited Mrs. Deacon to drive the first ball off the tee to signify the commencement of play.
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, April 1957
House for Sale
(At Bargain Rates)
Handy to Shopping Centre in splendid residential locality of town. Good area of land. Substantial outbuildings. Bore equipped with hand pump.
Prices for quick sale at £550/-/-
This is a proposition worth investigation.
H. W. STAY & SONS
ALLORA.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, April 1932
Long Range Shooting
One Off Possible
Registering a score of 54 at 800 yards on Saturday afternoon, W. H. Cross, a member of the Allora Rifle Club, put on what is believed to be a record performance for that particular distance at the Allora range. A run of nine bull’s eyes was broken by an inner, the eleventh shot was also a bull, leaving Cross one point off the possible. The feat occurred in the Silver Spoon Trophy Competition fired from the 700 and 800 yard mounds. The wind varied from 7 to 10 degrees right, and at times the light was difficult, owing to moving clouds.
Allora’s Past 40 years ago, April 1967
Allora and District Tennis Association
Teams to play Oakey at Oakey on April 23rd.
Senior Team –
R. May, K. May, K. Muir, E. May, R. Jackson J. Anderson, P. Lawson, T. Wright, Miss B. May, Miss K. Geaney, Mrs. Jackson, Mrs. Lawson.
Junior Team –
A. Bell, R. Neale, J. Byrne, T. Masters, Miss M. McLellan, Miss C. Geaney.
Allora’s Past 25 years ago, May 1982
NEW BUS OPERATORS
Col and Bette Gay have now taken over from Col and Marcia Young who served the district for many years. Col and Bette really appreciate the help that Col and Marcia gave them in showing them the ropes and helping them to settle in, and wish them all the very best for the future. Col and Bette would welcome enquiries and can be contacted by phone.
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, May 1957
SPECIAL NOTICE
MAHONEY’S wish to notify the people of Allora and District that they have purchased the Newsagency and Fancy Goods Business previously conducted by Hampson & Gilbert.
When in town you are invited to call and inspect our new range of Books, Comics and Fancy Goods.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, May 1932
Identity Passes
The death of Mr. Patrick Donovan in his 82nd year removes from the Allora district one of its most interesting identities. He had been associated with the commercial life in the town for more than 44 years.
Mr. Donovan was born in Co. Tipperery, Ireland, in 1851, and having completed his education at Dublin University proceeded to Australia and into service with the Queensland National Bank in Warwick in 1875. When the Q. N. Bank opened in Allora in 1888, Mr. Donovan was appointed the first manager. He later resigned and went to Coolgardie, W. A. After a couple of years he returned to Allora where he was a founder of the first butter factory. In 1905 he started Donovan’s Auction Mart which became the stock and station agency business of Donovan & Son when his son, Mr. P. F. Donovan, joined the firm. Mr. Donovan snr. took an active interest in the business until a couple of years ago when he retired due to ill health.
Mr. Donovan was an outstanding athlete in his younger days, and while serving with the bank at Hughenden, won a trophy worth 80 guineas.
It was in Hughenden that he married Miss Ellen Lynch in 1882.
He is survived by his wife, his son, and three daughters. The funeral service took place in St. Patrick’s Church, the Rev. Father O’Shea officiating.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, May 1932
Night Watchman for Business Sector
Methods for efficiently protecting their premises against burglary and fire were discussed at large by ten Allora businessmen on Monday night. Consensus of opinion was that a night watchman would be the best investment and a canvass of all firms is to be made with the object of securing united assistance in this direction. The meeting was convened following the recent theft of goods from Messrs. Barnes & Company’s premises, the law breakers making a clean getaway.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, May 1907
Methodist Parsonage
Congratulations to the local Methodist community for taking the decision to build a parsonage to accommodate the married minister who was recently appointed to the Allora charge. At a social gathering on Wednesday night, £145 was pledged and this, together with other promises of help, will allow tenders to be called. Plans have been drawn by Allora contractor, Mr. Daniel Stodart. The parsonage will be built on land next to the Methodist church, which was acquired for the original Wesley Chapel 40 years ago.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, May 1907
A Story
Mr. Francis Grayson M. L. A., the Government member for the seat of Cunningham returned in Saturday’s election, was standing at the door of his carriage waiting for the train to start. Around him was a group of his admirers, bent on seeing him off. The admirers were still chewing over the defeated candidate, Mr. Needham’s boast, of Labour being the backbone of the country when their candidate waved his arms oratorically. There, he explained, is the backbone of the country and as the words left his lips the train suddenly jerked forward and the descending sweep of the speakers arm, as he was thrown out of balance, caught a well meaning but corpulent elector full in the abdomen, the metaphors becoming as mixed as the rotund man’s feelings.
Here endeth the election.
G. Spencer Briggs
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, May 1932
Pioneer’s Death
Year by year the ranks of the early pioneers of the Central Downs are being thinned by the grim reaper, until only a handful remain.
Mrs. Dorothea Bradfield, who died last week on the eve of her 95th birthday, was one of an adventurous band of men and women who made their homes on the first land selected in the Allora district. Born Miss Westcott in Glasgow in 1838, she landed in Brisbane in 1862. She journeyed to Allora by bullock wagon and married Mr. Robert Bradfield the following year. Mr. Bradfield selected land one mile to the east of the town, land still owned by the family. Illustrating the hardships faced by the pioneers, in 1864, Mrs. Bradfield, ill at the time, was carried by her husband to the old Dalrymple Hotel during the largest flood ever experienced in the district. The water swept down causing the Bradfield’s and other settlers to vacate their land.
The deceased lady is survived by three daughters and six sons.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, May 1907
Sample of Ensilage
Local ensilage experts were much interested in a sample of wheaten stack ensilage left here by Mr. A. Rickert on Saturday last, and all who have inspected it, have declared it a good one. Our knowledge of ensilage is limited but it is certain that the fodder smells sweet and good and the office pony gave it his unqualified approval. We always reckoned that Mr. Rickert was amongst the most progressive of local farmers and the fact that he has been doing a bit of ensilage making on his own account merely strengthens our opinion.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, May 1932
England’s Day
Justifiable pride in the past history of the English race and faith in the ability of England to surmount the difficulties which beset the world at the present time were expressed by Mr. C. G. Shooter in the presidential speech of the Festival of St. George, celebrated on Thursday evening last. The Royal Society of St. George is now the only national organization in Allora and a plea for those of English descent to maintain the existence of the branch was made by one of its organizers, Mr. H. G. Deacon.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, June 1907
Sale of Reserves
At Wednesday’s meeting of the Allora Town Council, Ald. Crookey moved that, owing to the high cost of maintaining the various Council administered reserves, the Minister of Lands be asked to sell the following reserves, The Licking Holes, Hanselmann’s Pocket and O’Callaghan’s Pocket to the west of the town, the Iron Bark Ridge and the Allora Mountain Reserves. A vote was taken and it was decided to sell the Licking Holes and Hanselmann’s Reserves while retaining O’Callaghan’s Pocket, Iron Bark Ridge and Allora Mountain Reserves.
Ald. Deacon moved that the reserve near Gordon’s slaughter yards to the east of the town be leased, leaving a road to the yards and access to the creek.
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, June 1957
Q.C.W.A. YOUNGER SET
invites you to Dress Up ….. and
come back again to the
“FLAPPER ERA”
at the
“GAY TWENTIES BALL”
See the arrival of the “Charlston Gang’
at the R. S. L. Hall
Monday, 8th July
Novelty Dances Heep’s Orchestra
Excellent Supper Admission 7/6
J. Neale Hon. Sec.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, June 1907
Factories and Shops Act
In consequence of the early closing provisions of this Act having been declared to be in force in Allora, the business establishments remained opened till 10 p.m. last night and will close at 1 p.m. today, Saturday. A petition is in the course of signature collection for a poll of ratepayers to decide whether the half holiday will be observed on a Saturday, or on a Wednesday as has been the case in the past. We understand that arrangements have been made by which, after today, the holiday will take place on Wednesdays pending the taking of the poll.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, June 1932
A New Court
St. Joseph’s Tennis Club
Such was the triumph of the co-operation by those connected with the establishment of a tennis court in the grounds of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, that within eight weeks of the initial movement to raise funds, the work was completed and the debt erased, with the exception of a few pounds. The opening ceremony was performed on Saturday afternoon, in the presence of a large gathering, by Mrs. W. A. Deacon in the absence of Mr. Deacon M. L. A. Mrs. Deacon congratulated those responsible for the new venture and formally opened the court by serving a ball across the net, arousing applause.
Mr. P. J. Doyle, representing the fund raising committee, presented a set of 4 racquets to the Sisters of St. Joseph. These were accepted by the Rev. Father O’Shea on their behalf.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, June 1907
The Severance Question
It is now at least twelve months since a movement was started for the division of the large, cumbersome, and consequently most unsatisfactorily managed Clifton Shire. A committee was formed of representatives from each locality and a collected petition forwarded to the Home Secretary in favour of the project. The Home Secretary promised consideration but no action has been forthcoming.
Clifton Shire, extending practically from Warwick to Toowoomba is too large to be efficient, and division into two parts would be a great advantage. The only opposition comes from the town of Clifton and although this is natural, is extremely selfish. The local member of parliament should be prevailed upon to support the proposition.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, June 1932
A Fishy Story
A case of mistaken identity with a parcel of fish occurred a few days ago. It appears that the fish had been consigned by the railway in Goondiwindi, to a Mr. C. Young, and arrived this morning. Several officials made inquiries and ascertained that there was only one Mr. C. Young in the district, an employee of the Post Office. They contacted him and advised him to call and collect the parcel as soon as was convenient. Mr. Young was reluctant at first but then concluded that it had been sent to him by relatives on the South Western line as a surprise gift. He collected the bulky parcel and distributed it amongst his friends. A short time later a Chinese named See Yung began to make enquiries culminating on the recall of the contents of the parcel. The consignee in Goondiwindi inadvertently made the mistake.
Allora’s Past 25years ago, June 1982
A PRE-WEDDING AFTERNOON will be held in the Victoria Hill Hall on Sunday, 15th August, at 1.30 p.m. in honour of Miss Mary Meara’s approaching marriage to Mr. John Ryan.
Ladies and gentlemen welcome.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, June 1932
Record Frosts
Even late risers were agreed that Sunday’s frost was the most severe experienced in Allora for some years. The temperature plunged to 12ºF (20º of frost) eclipsing the previous record of 14º set in the winter of 1929. A white mantle covered the ground until several hours after sunrise and in some sheltered places was observed late in the afternoon. Household taps froze and water pipes burst. Flower and vegetable plots were destroyed. An unusual spectacle was the freezing over of the creek above the weir. On Sunday the water, now stagnant and at a low level, was found to be coated with a layer of ice ½ inch thick for 20 yards upstream. On Monday the ice extended for 40 yards.
After several years of publishing this column in the "Allora Advertiser", Sammy David and Helen Catherine Achilles have sold the business to David Gleeson as of July 2 2007. We of the Allora & District Historical Society Inc., are delighted to continue our association with David Gleeson and the "Allora Advertiser". And wish him every success for the future.
Allora’s Past 25years ago, July 1982
PUBLIC NOTICE
As a result of the fire in our premises last Tuesday night customer’s enquiries should be directed to phone 973126 until further notice.
Our sincere thanks to the Fire Brigade and all who assisted at the time of the fire.
Peter Nolan
PUBLIC NOTICE
Adverse rumours concerning Littler’s new home are unfounded.
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, July 1957
Meeting of Cream Suppliers
A meeting of cream suppliers of the Goomburra-Berat district will be held in the Goomburra Hall Tonight, 4th July at 8 p.m.
Business : To discuss unsatisfactory train time table.
All interested persons are invited to attend.
E. G. Nussey, Organizer.
SPECIAL NOTICE
Ray and Dorothy Dawes wish to advise the people of Allora and District that they have disposed of the Commercial Hotel to Mr. and Mrs. Keith Smith and they take this opportunity to thank their customers and friends for their patronage and assistance over the last two years and hope that the same consideration will be extended to Mr. and Mrs. Smith.
Allora’s Past 25years ago, July 1982
PUBLIC NOTICE
Due to the fire in our premises customers are advised that until further notice all enquiries should be made by phoning 66 3392.
Kev Harrison
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, July 1957
A Statement to the Electors Of Cunningham
I would like to inform my friends and supporters of my plans for the forthcoming election campaign. There seems to be a very good chance of winning the treasury benches for the Country Party-Liberal interests. For many years owing mainly to the rigging of electoral boundaries, we have been in opposition with roughly 50 per cent of the votes cast for us. We have had to be content with one seat out of three in the house. Now, with a bitter labour split, the system which was designed for our defeat, first past the post ballots, gives us a very good chance of winning. At all costs the Country Party and Liberals must be given the opportunity to restore the dignity and respect that the Queensland Parliament has lost in recent years.
Here in Cunningham my record is known, I have done my best to carry out my obligations as your member.
Allan Fletcher.
Allora’s Past 100 years ago, July 1907
A Hare Shoot
A number of townsmen accepted the hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. R. K. Black at a hare shoot at Goomburra on Wednesday last and a thoroughly enjoyable day was spent. The luck of the day was somewhat unevenly divided but a total of 70 hares fell victim to the guns. The largest bag was 11, made by Wattie Anderson. Mrs. Black entertained the visitors in right royal style and put on a capital luncheon. Nothing could have exceeded the hospitality shown by Mr. and Mrs. Black. After participating in a substantial afternoon tea the party left the scene of the festivities, reaching town just before dark, thoroughly satisfied with their days outing.
Bioscope Entertainment
On Monday night, Mr. W. J. Ferguson’s bioscope and lantern entertainment was produced in Allora. The audience was not large which is rather a pity, as some of the views, notably those relating to New Zealand, were very meritorious. Allora people have been so well catered for in the past as regards to entertainment of this kind, that it requires something of a very high grade to excite their enthusiasm.
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, July 1932
Lighting Scheme Progress
Tenders close on the 28th of July with the Allora Shire Council’s electrical engineer for the supply of the necessities for the lighting scheme in the town. The first schedule is for the supply of wooden posts and crossarms. The second schedule calls for tenders for the supply of cable, insulators, meters and fittings.
The third involves the provision of street lights and fittings, with suspension lights at the intersections of Herbert and Warwick Streets, Herbert and Drayton Streets, and Forde and Warwick Streets, with twelve bracket lights to be placed at the other principal intersections.
New Tennis Court
Goomburra Valley Club’s new tennis court has been completed and arrangements will soon be in hand for the official opening. The court is surrounded with a strong enclosure and a comfortable pavilion has been provided. All the work with the exception of the umpires stand has been undertaken by contract at a cost to the club of £51/10/0.
Allora’s Past 50 years ago, August 1957
ALLORA CATHOLIC BALL
Over the years the Central Hall, Allora, has been the mecca of many dance patrons. However, due to extensive alterations to be carried out in the near future, the Annual Catholic Debutante Ball to be held on Tuesday next, 27th August, will be the last Ball in the Central Hall.
On this occasion, at 9 p.m., three debutantes, preceded by pageboys and flower girls, will be presented to his Lordship, the most Rev. W. Brennan, D.D., Bishop of Toowoomba.
Kingsley Locke’s Warwick Orchestra will supply the music for the dancing from 8 p.m. till 2 a.m. The hall will be artistically decorated with artificial decorations, coupled with a display of flowers on the stage.
The supper at the Allora Catholic Ball needs no introduction. Suffice to say it will consist of ham and chicken in sandwich form, hot sausage rolls, cakes with all kinds of delicious fillings, trifles, jellies and savouries.
The committee have done everything in their power to make this Ball enjoyable. They extend to you a cordial invitation to attend and express the wish that you will be able to take away with you happy memories of this ball, the last top be held in the Central Hall.
T. McVeigh, Hon. Sec.
Allora’s Past 25 years ago, August 1982
THANKS
I would like to thank the Allora Rotary Club, Allora Apex Club and the people of Allora and district for their generous support during my fund raising for the tour of New Zealand with the Australian High Schools Rugby League team.
GRANT RIX
Allora’s Past 75 years ago, August 1932
Kingsford Smith in Allora
The opportunity to fly with the world’s greatest air pilot in the huge machine that has encircled the globe is not an every day occurrence, so that it was not surprising that immediately Sir Charles Kingsford Smith landed at the Allora racecourse on Tuesday afternoon, the Southern Cross made flight after flight over the town. On each pleasure cruise the monoplane carried a complement of 14, each happy to pay the fare of £1 and anxious to obtain a glimpse of Allora from the air.
Cr. Thomas Muir, Chairman of the Allora Shire Council, had earlier welcomed the aviator to the town.
The Southern Cross had no difficulty in taking off from the racecourse. It normally requires a run off of 700 yards but a stiff westerly wind made the task much easier.
Please continue on Looking Back 3.
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