Looking Back 3

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, August 1907

Junior Football

On Saturday a football team of lads from the Clifton Colliery School played the Allora junior team on the recreation reserve, Allora winning by nine points to nil. Master Thomas Bourke captained the visitors and Bob Brown, the home team. For the winners Pat Flynn, Willie Dank, Bob Brown, “Paddy” Clarke, and “Dick” Holmes played well, the latter three scoring a try each.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, August 1932

Football Fiasco

When the Back Plains and the Allora Rangers teams attended the Clifton Athletic Oval on Sunday afternoon to play a knockout round for the Meara Cup under the direction of the Clifton Rugby League, neither side had a ball. Eventually a schoolboy football was obtained and the teams took the field, the Allora side including three unregistered players. The game had been in progress for about twenty minutes when the ball burst. At that stage the Allora players were ahead on points, having scored 13 to their opponents nil. The match was abandoned, but is to be replayed at a later date.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, August 1907

Influenza Epidemic

There are people who point to the comet as the cause of the prevailing epidemic of influenza. Certainly the comet is rather far away, but where else are we going to lay the blame. Of course it may be responsible for the outbreak in an indirect way, it may have been occasioned by people getting up at an unearthly hour to gaze on an unearthly visitant.

It is certain that we could put the attack down to defective drainage and unsanitary conditions in the town. The bad smell that can be smelt in the town early in the morning has nothing more to do with it than eating tinned fish has. Nothing whatever can be laid at the door of the long suffering town council. We must go outside Allora for the cause of the complaint.

Anyway, so far as Allora is concerned, the nasty epidemic seems to be on the decline.

G. Spencer Briggs.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, August 1932

Governor General Visits Downs

The Governor General, Sir Isaac Isaacs, stopped briefly at the Hendon Railway Station on Tuesday and was met by representatives of public bodies of Allora and district.

Welcoming Sir Isaac, Mr. T. Muir, Chairman of the Allora Shire Council, said that although his Excellency’s trip through Queensland had been brief, he was sure that it had been a pleasure. Allora business people appreciated the chance of meeting him and he hoped that Sir Isaac would, on his next trip to Queensland, visit Allora, one of the chief centres of the garden of Queensland.

In addition to Cr. Muir, the Governor General was met by Councillors P. Imhoff, J. E. Nussey and Captain McColm of the Allora Shire Council. Also in the welcoming party were Mesdames J. Sharpe, C. Burge and W. Smith from the Allora Branch of the Q. C. W. A. and Messrs. H. Geitz (President), W. M. Holmes, H. G. Deacon, H. Stay, W. Hingfuss, and A. R. Cunnington representing the Chamber of Commerce.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, September 1982

Allora Tennis Club

JUNIOR TOURNAMENT

FINALS in all grades will be played on

Saturday, 18^th September. Spectators welcome.

9 a.m. Sec. boy’s singles: D. Acason v winner of P. Atkinson v R. Bassingthwaite. Sec. girl’s singles: M. Cantwell v C. Gibson.

10 a.m. Primary boy’s singles: J. Sparksman v winner of R. Bell v P. Agnew. Primary girl’s singles T. Sparksman v C. Cornhill.

11 a.m. Secondary mixed: C. Gibson and P. O’Grady v D. Acason and T. Mason.

Open boy’s singles: P. Gordon v G. Mason.

12 noon. Primary girl’s doubles: T. Sparksman and C. Cornhill v H. Muir and K. Phelan.

1 p.m. Secondary boy’s doubles: D. Acason and P. Atkinson v P. O’Grady and T. Geitz.

Open girl’s singles: C. McVeigh v H. McVeigh.

2 p.m. Primary boy’s doubles: P. Bell and D. Peardon v R. Bell and J. Sparksman.

Secondary girl’s doubles: C. Gibson and R. Aldridge v L. Ryan and T. Mason.

3 p.m. Open boy’s doubles: S. O’Grady and G. Mason v winner of P. O’Grady and D. Mason v P. Gordon and D. Acason.

Primary mixed doubles: C. Cornhill and M. Campbell v winner of K. Ryan and T. Acason v J. and T. Sparksman.

4 p.m. Open mixed doubles: P. O’Grady and S. Mason v winner of S. and E. Haegel v C. McVeigh and P. Atkinson.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, September 1907

New Store Opens

P. J. Casey & Co., specializing in drapery, millinery, mercery, men’s clothing and boots opened a new store in Allora today. The firm has secured new and substantial premises in Herbert Street next to the Railway Hotel. By stocking new, fresh goods and doing business on the newest and most approved lines, the firm hopes to secure a fair share of public support.

(Bob Brown opened his tobacconist’s, casket agency and hairdressing saloon in the building in 1927 and the business operated on those lines until the closure of Mahoney’s in 1967. “The Shopping Spot” opened in 1972 and the building is now occupied by Allora Pharmacy.)

Obituary

The sudden death occurred at Wiyarra on Wednesday morning of Mrs. C. Siebenhausen. The deceased, who was a widow, was 69 years of age, and was a very old resident of the district. We tender our condolences to the relatives of the deceased who include Messrs. A. D., C. C., and W. H. Siebenhausen, sons of the late Mrs. Siebenhausen.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, September 1932

Upper Spring Creek Picnic

Heavy roads and a continuation of the wet weather prevented the attendance of few, other than residents of the locality, at the annual picnic of the Upper Spring Creek School, held in the playground on Saturday. Muddy conditions failed to dampen the ardour of the 20 odd scholars who entered with enthusiasm, into the races and competitions organized by their teacher, Mr. T. R. Andrews, and the school committee headed by Mr. T. Gibson. The organizers had not canvassed for subscriptions but relied on the proceeds of the dance held in Mr. Gibson’s barn where Miss R. Cowley provided the music.

Some of the results included:-

Boy’s flat race 8-10 years, W. Gibson 1, B. Hoey 2. Girl’s under 11, Alice Doyle 1, Malveen Horton 2. Tot’s race Maggie Gibson.

Boy’s three legged race, J. & W. Gibson.

Girl’s, Alice Doyle & Ethel Hoey.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, September 1982

Farms for Sale

Handy to Allora and Warwick --

310 ACRES, good grazing country, 2 dams, sheep proof fencing. Price $70,000.

Close to Allora –

400 ACRES with 3 bedroom home, stables, cattle yards, grain and machinery sheds, piggery, 2 bores equipped, 315 acres cultivation on 2 titles. Price $320,000.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, September 1932

Waltzing Competition

Indicative of the public interest aroused in old-time

dancing, the waltzing competition sponsored by the

entertainment committee of the Star of Allora Lodge

drew a gathering of more than 250 to the Central Hall

on Wednesday evening, when the dancers selected

to contest the finals, faced the judges. Twenty couples

participated in the contest. Three heats had been

decided in the Alliance Hall on the previous Wednesday

night. Eventually the judges, Messrs. R. Wilson and

J. E. White, awarded the honour to Mr. and Mrs. G. McMillan

and declared Mr. M. Byrne and Miss Nell Byrne runners-up.

The other couples to dance in the finals were Mr. and

Mrs. H. J. Warfield, and Mr. L. Shannon and Miss H. Munro.

Mr. H. Hamill was the master of ceremonies and the

secretarial duties were carried out by Mr. W. R. Neale.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, September 1907

Cottage Hospital

Following the public meeting called by the Mayor in regard

to the building of a cottage hospital, collectors have been

appointed to canvass the town and district. We hear on very

good authority that there is every likelihood of the proposed

cottage hospital being granted Government endowment

provided it is erected on freehold property and does not

occupy rented premises. The collectors are meeting with a

very good response and there appears to be every

reason to anticipate that the efforts of the promoters will

be crowned with success.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, September 1932

Show Grounds Wicket

After discussion which lasted almost two hours on Tuesday, the committee of the Central Downs A. and H. Association decided that the Allora and District Cricket Association be allowed the use of the show grounds oval for cricket purposes only, on Saturdays and Sundays, for three seasons, and at an annual rental of £1/1. The permission was granted subject to the control of the show society, and members of both organizations are to meet to frame minor clauses of the proposed agreement.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, September 1907

Football

The 1907 season, as far as this district’s union fixtures are concerned, concluded on Saturday when Allora Rangers defeated Nobby by 25 points to nil. Mr. Hawes refereed satisfactorily. Tries were scored by J. Collins (2), Tom Collins (2), J. Winfield (2), and A. McLeod, goals being kicked by J. Winfield and J. Flynn. The Allora club was entertained after the match. The Rangers thus hold the premiership for the season and will receive 17 medals presented by the Union. The cup must be won two years in succession before becoming any particular club’s property, Clifton being the holders up to now. We congratulate the Rangers on a successful season.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, October 1932

To the Right Place

Was it animal instinct or merely coincidence that led a racing greyhound to a tinsmith’s home to have a tin removed from its head? About 6 o’clock a few mornings ago, Mr. S. R. Munsie, an Allora plumber, was aroused by what he though was a small boy beating a tin. On investigation he found that a dog, apparently in search of something to eat managed to push its head through a circular hole in an empty 12lb tea tin and was wandering blindly about knocking the tin against everything in its path. The hole was barely big enough to admit the animal’s head but having achieved the seemingly impossible feat, it certainly was unable to extricate itself. Mr. Munsie manage to call the dog to him and with a few deft cuts with a pair of tin snips released it from its ludicrous position. He was quite unprepared for the profuse demonstration of thanks – the dog joyfully wagged its tail and sprang up and licked him.

Allora’s Past 50 years ago, October 1957

A Pre Wedding Evening

Will be tendered to Miss Shirley Mullins in the Victoria Hill Hall on Monday, 7^th October, in honour of her approaching marriage to Mr. Spencer Goodall.

Good music. Good supper.

Convs. Mesdames K. Cooper, B. Frizzell, A. Burmester, Misses D. Shooter, G. Bott.

ALLORA SHIRE COUNCIL

NOTICE

The “Southern Cross” will be arriving in Allora on Saturday, 12^th October, at 8.30 a.m. The plane will not be assembled at Allora but inspections of the various parts can be made.

The “Southern Cross’ will be displayed at the corner of Herbert and Drayton Streets until 9.30 a.m.

Lex Ellwood, Shire Clerk.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, October, 1982

BUSINESS NOTICE

David and Patti Guilford wish to announce

that they are the new proprietors

of the ROYAL HOTEL, Allora,

from Friday, 29^th October.

A warm welcome to old and new customers.

A SPECIAL MEETING

for the formation of a BLUE NURSING SERVICE AUXILIARY

will be held in St. Andrew’s Uniting Church Hall,

Monday, 18^th October, at 2 p.m.

All interested persons welcome.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, October 1932

Flying the Flag

State schools in future are to be given the choice of either the Union Jack or the Australian flag when obtaining a flag, free of cost, from the Education Department. Previously schools were able to get only the Union Jack free of charge from the department, and if an Australian flag was desired it was purchased by the school itself. Mr. A. Exley, vice-president of the Royal Society of St. George and a former head teacher at Allora revealed that the Allora School was the first in Queensland to erect a flagpole and that during the South African War both flags were flown in the Allora school grounds.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, October 1932

Country Women

One of the first to be formed in Queensland, the Allora branch of the Country Women’s Association has now entered its eleventh year of service to the community. The story of the Allora branch is one of progress.

Following the success of two or three other branches in Queensland, a meeting was held on October 3^rd, 1922, and those present decided to form a branch at Allora. Mrs. T. Muir was elected the first president and Mrs. G. Sharpe, secretary. Mesdames W. A. Deacon and J. R. Dwyer were appointed vice-presidents and Mrs. A. Lumsden, treasurer. From its inception until almost the end of 1927, the members met regularly in the Central Hall, placed at the disposal of the branch by Mrs. Sharpe. A suggestion had been put forward that a rest and retiring room was a necessity for country members and on November 23, 1927, the present home of the branch was opened free of debt.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, October 1907

Wanted a Rubbish Tip

Amongst the natural beauties with which our town is provided is Dalrymple Creek, and why the banks of this charming stream should be profaned and made hideous by being used by certain inhabitants as a rubbish tip passes our comprehension. Quite close to the town and right opposite the spot where, within our rembrance, a party of Celestials were engaged in growing the succulent tomato and the pungent radish, is a beautiful collection of dilapidated tinware in various stages of decay and a miscellaneous assortment of rubbish, which was never fitted to adorn the banks of our pretty little creek. In a depression quite close to the town a defunct fowl slumbers peacefully, diffusing an aroma of surprising strength and energy. The Town Council has a by-law dealing with this matter, we look to them to take action.

G. Spencer Briggs.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, October 1932

Sunrise Links

Three miles by road from Allora and only a few minutes walk from the Hendon railway station lies the Sunrise Golf Club’s new nine-hole golf course, which on Saturday, was officially opened in the presence of a large gathering, by Mr. W. A. Deacon M. L. A. The club has secured the lease of 60 acres of Mr. Arthur Masters’ property for a period of three years, with the option of an extension at the expiry of the present term. Foundation membership of the club is 20 with 10 associates having been enrolled. A clubhouse of bush timber and galvanized iron has been constructed by Mr. John Warfield.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, October 1907.

Sale of the Old Town Hall

The old town hall building, erected in 1870 in Forde Street, which served as municipal headquarters until the recent completion of the new town hall, was auctioned by Mr. J. H. Buxton on Saturday last. Bidding was fairly keen and the building was knocked down to Mr. Patrick O’Callaghan for the sum of £25.

Passing Through

Mr. George Essex Evans, the well known writer, and a former Berat resident, was in town this week collecting information for the handbook of Queensland which he is compiling for the Queensland Government. Mr. Evans was quite impressed by the material progress made by Allora and district during the past few years.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, November 1932

Scout Building
Determined to erect their own hut, the scouts of the First Allora Group, aided by their committee, commenced work more than twelve ago. On Saturday afternoon, with friends and supporters the boys had the pleasure of witnessing the opening and dedication of the new building. The scout den stands in Forde Street on a small allotment leased from the Allora Shire Council. The work was supervised by Mr. W. Leggatt with help from experienced tradesmen.
The Allora troop is led by Scouter B. M. Sims and Rover J. Hinks and supported by an enthusiastic committee led by Mr. H. Geitz, (president) and Mrs. J. C. Marshall, (secretary).

Allora’s Past 50 years ago, November 1957
SPECIAL NOTICE
Mr. & Mrs. H. J. Holmes extend a cordial invitation to you to attend the 21st Birthday Party in honour of their son, Warren, which will be held in the Victoria Hill Hall on Saturday night, 9th November.
Dancing to Yale Blue’s Orchestra.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, November 1982
A Pre Wedding Evening will be held in honour of Miss Pauline Geaney’s approaching marriage to Mr. Graham Free, at the Community Hall, Friday 10th December.
Jim Kelly’s Orchestra. Ladies please provide.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, November 1932

The Saleyards
An almost peremptory request from the Health Department that the Allora Shire Council take steps to permanently abate the nuisance and suggesting that the saleyards in the town area be removed to a more isolated position was received at its monthly meeting. The letter was the outcome of a recent complaint made by Mrs. M. H. Dougall of Jubb Street, who two years ago petitioned the council to mitigate the foul smells, dust, flies and noise emanating from the adjoining yards. At the suggestion of the Health Inspector, the meeting decided that the matter be referred to its resident Medical Officer of Health (Dr. C. P. Sapsford).
Bowling Green
To place the proposed bowling green on a definite footing or completely abandon the project to establish a green in Allora, was the decision of six members of the tentatively formed club. Since its inception nine months ago, the committee has negotiated for the site known as the drill shed reserve at the corner of Raff and Warwick Streets, but without success. Subsequently it was decided that another meeting be called to decide definitely a course of action. The committee comprised Mr. A. Hamilton in the chair, Dr. C. P. Sapsford and Messrs. John Holmes, W. Leggatt, W. M. Holmes and S. Blair (Secretary).

Allora’s Past 50 years ago, November 1957
NOTICE
To the Public of Allora and District.
I wish to advise that I have taken over the Cordial Business formerly conducted by L. K. & E. F. Jensen and am soliciting orders for my products. I will endeavor at all times to offer a good selection of first quality drinks.
Lodge your Xmas orders early.
M. J. Larkin, Proprietor.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, November 1907
Police Court
On Tuesday before Messrs. Sharpe and Whitman J. J. P., Peter Palm was charged with having in his possession certain property reasonably expected to have been stolen. The property in this instance consisted of a fowl neatly dismembered and packed away amongst the accused effects. Mr. Palm appears to be a gentleman of socialistic or communistic ideas to property judging from some of his utterances. At any rate he failed to convince the Bench that he had come by the fowl in a legitimate manner and they imposed a fine of £1 or 14 days in the cells.

Sad Drowning Fatality
One of those sad happenings which periodically shock small communities such as ours, took place on Saturday, by which a young and promising life was lost. It appears that Cameron Crookey, eldest son of Mr. Samuel Crookey, aged between 11 and 12 years, went to the creek near the Church of England grounds accompanied by a lad named Walker. Young Crookey threw a line in the water and started fishing. His friend left him standing on the butt of a willow tree and as he reached the top of the bank heard a splash and saw the lad struggling in the water. Being unable to reach him, Walker ran for help, and despite the gallant efforts of George Doyle who was first on the scene, Master Crookey could not be saved. It is believed that he was a non swimmer.

Good Shot
Mr. T. Maher jnr., during the recent big shooting carnival in Sydney, most worthily maintained the reputation of the Allora Rifle Club, carrying off prizes at nine different ranges. At the Randwick range he was narrowly beaten for first place and at eight other ranges including the Australian range, where he was one of the representatives for Queensland, he carried off cash prizes. His winnings totaled a considerable sum. Mr. W. A. Moulday won prizes in three matches and Mr. H. Weber two. Needless to say we are proud to record the prowess of our friends abroad.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, December 1982

THANK YOU
Sheree Shapland and John Keleher extend a big “thank you” to those people who organized their pre-wedding afternoon, those who assisted in any way, attended the afternoon, or sent donations.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, December 1932

Electrical Current
Following questions concerning the availability of electrical current in the business sector during Christmas week, traders may rest assured that every effort is being made to have the service in operation in time for the expected night shopping on December 23rd. The engineer who is installing the necessary machinery at the Allora butter factory stated that as far as he is concerned the engines, alternators and switchboard would be ready for Christmas. The contractor for the cables stated that the work was proceeding apace and he expected to finish the lines in the business sector in time for consumers to be connected to the service so that their premises would be electrically lighted for the Christmas season.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, December 1907

Harvest Home
Tuesday night December 17th,was one of the most enjoyable evenings ever spent at Goomburra, the occasion being a Harvest Home celebration held at “Maianbar”, it being Mr. J. T. Tod’s usual custom to make this ancient Scottish island tradition an annual affair. About 50 guests sat down to a most sumptuous spread. After everyone had done full justice to the good things provided, Mr. Tod proposed a toast to the Harvest Home in a very spirited manner. Mr. J. Doyle proposed the health of the host, which was drunk with musical honours. The supper being over, the large dinning room was cleared and dancing was carried out vigorously until the early hours of the morning when the celebration was ended with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, December 1982

NEW YEAR’S EVE FUN DANCE
Community Hall, Allora Dynasty Orchestra
Novelties – not licensed. Join with us and make it a happy night for all.
Sandwiches provided. Please bring a plate. Proceeds to local charity.
Adults $3.00, Students $1.00, Family $8.00.

Allora’s Past 50 years ago, December 1957

Q. C. W. A. YOUNGER SET
Monster Christmas Party and DANCE
COME AND USE OUR MISTLETOE !!
                                    on
              Monday Night, 23rd December
                               at
          R. S. L. HALL, ALLORA
    Kev Chard’s Orchestra      Novelty Dances
    Excellent Supper                Admission 5/-
                                           J. Neale, Hon. Sec.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, January 1908

Gravelling Bee
The Church of England Men’s Society held a most successful gravelling bee on the 15th inst. And members turned up in force with picks and shovels. Horse teams were lent by J. Dank and W. H. Stewart. Altogether ten loads of gravel were carted and spread in front of St. David’s Church. The Rev. H. T. Molesworth provided afternoon tea in the church grounds.

Scholars back in Harness
The start of anything is generally the most difficult part about it. Things go alright once that start is made: but it is making that start. A horse that has been out of harness for some weeks generally gets what is technically called “collar proud”. The children started to go to school again after the Christmas holidays on Monday morning last – and they were like that horse. It was a job to get them to start. But the start has been made and by this time the children have fallen into the old routine. And what is more, some 15 new children, or rather new scholars have fallen into it with them.
G. Spencer Briggs.

Allora’s Past 50 years ago, January 1958

ANNOUNCEMENT
NIGHT TENNIS
IN ALLORA

ST. DAVID’S TENNIS CLUB
advise that bookings are now being
accepted for Night Tennis.
Bookings may be made with the secretary,
Miss J. Volker, Phone 163.
£2 per night from 7.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m.
Players must supply their own tennis balls.

Allora’s Past 25 years ago, January 1983

Australia Day Celebrations in Allora
Five hundred people, including dozens in period costume, turned out to witness the re-enactment of the “Eureka Stockade” on Monday, 31st January, 1983, at the Dalrymple Creek Reserve.
The Australia Day celebrations, the second full scale celebration of the day in the town, began with the local Scope Club handing out damper in the main street. The Shire Chairman, Cr. Jim Deacon, said that he was very pleased with the public turn out on the day.
The “Eureka Stockade” re-enactment commentary was written and narrated by Michelle Smith. The rebel miner’s leader Peter Lalor, portrayed by Ted Cowley and assisted by Paul Ashton and John Cowley showed defiance of the tyrannical authorities by raising the “Southern Cross”. The hastily built stockade was then stormed by mounted troopers, played by members of the Downs Polo Club, and the rebellion was over in a matter of minutes.
The afternoon programme commenced at 1.30 with the raising of the Australian flag, the presentation of awards, community singing, and a talent quest, completing a very successful day of celebrations.

Allora’s Past 100 years ago, January 1908

New Business
Mr. E. Geitz, late with Mr. Tom Maher, has commenced business on his own account as a blacksmith, horseshoer etc. in premises on the corner of Warwick and Raff Streets. Mr. Geitz has had considerable experience and may be entrusted with all grades of work. We wish our young friend every success in his new venture.

Allora’s Past 75 years ago, January 1933.

Record Rainfall at Forest Springs
Heavy rainfall throughout the Allora district and an especially heavy fall of 295 points at Upper Forest Springs last Saturday night caused Dalrymple Creek to run a full banker which old residents stated was the highest level since the flood of 1893. At 2 a.m. water from Forest Springs gully supplemented by a flow from North Branch caused the creek to rise to 22 feet above normal summer height. If it had risen simultaneously with water from the main creek, significant damage would have been done to the town.
The extraordinarily heavy rain in the Upper Forest Springs district rendered the big culvert near the school untrafficable. The gully swelled to ½ mile wide through Banks’ property and Abernethy’s bridge, although one of the oldest in the district, but until then quite serviceable, was so badly damaged that it will practically have to be rebuilt.

Please continue on Looking Back 4.