INVERGORDON 50 YEAR CELEBRATATONS

Memories were recalled and friendships renewed when hundreds of people flocked to Invergordon for the 50th anniversary celebrations on October 22nd and 23rd. Almost two years of planning went into the weekend to mark the 50th anniversary of Closer Settlement, the dedication of the Uniting Church and opening of the Primary School on its present site. Although driven by a small committee the activities were embraced by the wider community with local groups joining in to assist with the smooth running of the event.

Highlights of the weekend:

*The number of scheduled bus trips around the settlement had to be extended to three to accommodate numbers. Ian Collins gave excellent commentary while Rodney Clarke drove the bus.

*Saturday night's dinner was attended by 230 guests. Guest speaker, former local MP, Ken Jasper launched the history book, "Small Community-Big Heart: The Invergordon Closer Settlement Story" which was complied by Rosemary Kennett. Bush poet Des Ginnane, entertained with his recitations and other speakers included Moira Shire Mayor, Ex Cox and Rural Finance Corp Regional General Manager, Matt Gill. Invergordon Cricket Club manned the bar and members of the Pony Club assisted with waitressing.

* Acting school principal, Collette Caffrey said more then 200 people visited the school during the open days with senior students assisting as tour guides. A display of old photographs, put together by Bev Pearce created much conversation.

* Murray Valley MP, Tim McCurdy unveiled a plaque to officially open the History Hall on Sunday. Visitors were amazed to see the transformation of the former Guide Hall and the extensive collections of memorabilia.

* An estimated 400 people were at the Community Centre on Sunday for the retrieval of contents from the time capsule and the opening of the History Hall. Invergordon Primary Parents' Club provided a superb BBQ lunch.

* Book sales have surpassed 450. Anyone who has pre-ordered books and is yet to collect them or would like additional copies can contact Rosemary Kennett on 03 5862 1707 or e-mail rosemary.kennett@bigpond.com.

* Uniting Church Moderator of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Isabel Thomas Dobson addressed the celebratory Sunday church service. Around 120 people gathered there for the occasion. Rev Tom Tali and two former ministers took part in the service as well as Rev Janet Munro (nee Wright) who grew up in Invergordon.