Queensland Government joins the Palm Island Centenary celebrations

Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council today launched its 2018 Centenary celebrations with the Queensland Government committing more than $235,000 towards a series of commemorative events.

Assistant Minister Glenn Butcher, representing Deputy Premier Jackie Trad at the launch of the Palm Island Centenary celebrations, said the Palm Island Centenary provided an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the past, present and future of the island community.

“Palm Island has had a long and sometimes tumultuous history and the Palaszczuk Government wants to recognise and celebrate this journey through a $235,000 contribution towards these celebrations,” Mr Butcher said.

“Established through adversity, Palm Island has faced many challenges over the years and its residents have shown absolute resilience and commitment to their community.

“The Palm Island Centenary organising committee has found a great balance organising these events to reflect on Palm’s history, as well as celebrating the achievements and pride of Palm Islanders now, and enthusiastically embracing opportunities available in the future.

“These celebrations may even be etched in the Guinness Book of Records with Palm Island Mayor Alf Lacey advising council is looking to break the largest didgeridoo ensemble and largest Aboriginal dance records at the present-themed Deadly Didge ‘n’ Dance Festival in April.

“I would like to wish Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council and its residents all the best for their Centenary celebrations.”

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said he was very happy to be able to contribute to these celebrations on behalf of the Government.

“It’s great news that this funding will go towards ensuring a centenary year that will be remembered well into the future,” Mr Stewart said.

“This additional funding from the Queensland Government will ensure Palm Island has the appropriate resources to make sure the past, present and future events can be held alongside other planned activities.

“I look forward to continuing the partnership between Council and the Palaszczuk Government over the coming year as we celebrate this important milestone.”

Palm Island’s key centenary events include: 

• ‘Past’ event to be held on 10 March 2018. Included in this event will be the Palm Island Hall of Fame; an Artefact Exhibition and a community re-enactment.
• ‘Present’ event to be held on 20–22 April 2018. This will include a two-night music festival titled ‘Deadly Didge ‘n’ Dance Festival’.
• ‘Future’ event to be held on 8–10 June 2018. Planned events include a Sustainability/Careers Expo, a sports carnival over two days and the burial of a time capsule.

Media Contact: Clare Manton 0432 446 268