Cairns Historical Society

The Cairns Historical Society finished off last year with their annual Christmas party which was held on Thursday 8th December at the Edge Hill Bowling Club.  The evening was a great success and thanks were given to all those involved in the event.  The Society believes that 2017 will be an exciting year as after more that three years out of their home, the Society will soon be able to begin the move back to the renovated School of Arts building.  President Clive Skarott reported that the volunteers will need time to pack everything up for the move, so the research centre will be closed to the public from the 13th February and reopening some time mid-year.  It will not be possible to answer all requests, however they will endeavour to respond to everyone.  The next lecture series is scheduled for Sunday 5th March at the City Library meeting rooms.  Angelica Geisel will speak on the Cairns-Tully Rail Motor Service and Sue Darby will tell about the beginnings of the School of Distance Education and then Julia Vilkmar will reveal addititional facts on Hap Wah.  The Society has also announced that they are now open for nominations for this year's SE Stephens History Award.  Nominations should be in the hands of the Secretary by the end of March.