Theodore gears up for grand centenary celebration

A Central Queensland town is gearing up for a grand celebration for its centenary. DETAILS.

Historical photos of the township of Theodore. Picture: Contributed

A Central Queensland town is gearing up for a grand celebration for its centenary.

Theodore, located in Banana Shire, is celebrating 100 years since the electricity to the town was turned on and Governor Matthew Nathan started the first water pump.

From June 28–30, the Theodore Centenary festivities promise a fun-filled weekend packed with exciting events, live entertainment, and a chance to celebrate the town’s rich history and vibrant community spirit.

Banana Shire Theodore sign at the entry to Theodore. One year on from the flood. Generic pics CM-NEWS. 19 December 11. Photographer: Jodie Richter.

The theme of this centenary celebration is: Sensing the past, enjoying the present and focusing on the future.

Banana Shire mayor Neville Ferrier shared his excitement, saying, “The Theodore Centenary is a momentous occasion for our community”.

“It’s a time to come together, celebrate our shared heritage, and create lasting memories,” he said.

Banana Shire mayor Neville Ferrier. Picture: Steve Vit

The festivities kick off on Friday, June 28, with an afternoon school tour, followed by an evening “Dancing Under the Lights of Theodore”.

With live entertainment and food trucks, this free event will be a magical start to the weekend.

Saturday is jam-packed with activities for all ages.

There will be a ceremony at the Ambulance Station, followed by tours.

Historical photos of the township of Theodore. Picture: Contributed

There will also be a vibrant street parade, followed by a display of floats, vehicles, and historic equipment.

The official opening ceremony will be attended by the Governor of Queensland, state officials, and Mayor Neville Ferrier.

Special guests include Stephen Theodore, great-nephew of Edward Theodore, and representatives from the IWS, SunWater, and Theodore Water.

The celebrations wrap up on Sunday with a farewell gathering at Junction Park, including family games from the past 100 years, a BBQ brunch, and a 100km relay event.

Historical photos of the township of Theodore. Picture: Contributed

Local cafes, the service station, the Lions Club, and various food stalls will be open all weekend, along with market stalls at Junction Park offering a variety of local goods and treats.

In addition to the weekend celebrations, the town will showcase two newly painted murals by acclaimed artist Zookeeper including the much awaited water tower commission.

Anne Chater, the Theodore Centenary Organiser, expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s incredible to see the community come together to honour our past and look forward to our future”.

Historical photos of the township of Theodore. Picture: Contributed

“I am so thankful to everyone who has contributed so much effort into making this weekend special,” she said.

The Theodore Centenary Celebrations is supported by the Banana Shire Council’s Community Grants Program.

Assistance for the event was also provided through the jointly-funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.