Innisfail District Historical Society

Some of the Society's members and friends had a great day out on the recent bus trip to Cairns which was organised by the Sugar Heritage Centre to see the Anzac Experience.  Everyone enjoyed themselves and the exhibition was well worth viewing.  It was great to see the Society's trench periscope from World War One which was lent to the organisers to add some local content into the display along with all the other great exhibits.  The group had a social event by celebrating a 'Christmas in July' at Richies Cafe at South Johnstone (old Gee Kee building) and what a great time was had.  All in all, it was a wonderful evening and meal.  Another recent event was the Society's display in the No.1 Pavilion at the Innisfail Show.  It was wet, cold and admissions were down but it was still a quite good Show.  The stall sold quite a few copies of the new South Johnstone Memories book, plus other publications so it was worthwhile being there.  To all those people chasing the Memories book, please email the Society on idhs1234@gmail.com and they will arrange to get a copy to you.  But the big event for the Society was the recent centenary day at South Johnstone and what an evening it was.  A record crowd turned up for the town history walk and to hear the stories of old South Johnstone town.  Many thanks to the great story tellers who brought to life some of the events and people who gave South Johnstone such an interesting history.  Thanks also to the local Policeman and Ambulance who added to the colour - and what would it have been without the sugar locos trundling in and out of the mill.  Such atmosphere.  Thanks also goes to the South Johnstone State School committee who provided refreshments after the walk and to top it all, it didn't rain.  The Society also had a successful launch of their photographic collection book 'Memories of South Johnstone'.  For those who missed out on this fun event, it is hoped to hold a Cemetery Walk there some time in October.  So put that in your diary and come along and meet some of the ghostly past.  And for all those interested people who have responded to the page for local sporting heroes - thank you for your input.  If you are in Innisfail, please call by and see the window display which has lots of photos of Innisfail's sportmen and Women and the group would be grateful to receive more names and would love photos.