Biloela100
Biloela100 Logo Competition Winner
Biloela came alive over the long weekend in October as over 1,500 people gathered to celebrate its centenary. The milestone event saw visitors from across Queensland and Australia, including Sydney and Perth, return to the town to reconnect with friends and family.
The celebrations began on Friday evening with the opening of the 28th Brigalow Arts Festival, which drew record crowds to the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery (BSRAG). Private gatherings took place at various venues across the weekend, and visitors and locals alike relished the opportunity to come together and celebrate.
Saturday morning saw Melton Park bustling with over 60 market stalls. The day’s highlight was the ceremonial burial of a time capsule by Federal Member Colin Boyce, State MemberBryson Head, Banana Shire Council Mayor Nev Ferrier andBiloela Centenary Advisory Committee Chairman Wayne Kirwan. The time capsule, sealed beneath concrete, will remain unopened for 50 years, to be discovered by future Biloelaresidents. Local shops and eateries joined in the festivities, adorned with balloons and posters commemorating Biloela’s100-year milestone, as visitors filled the streets, reminiscing about days gone by.
The celebrations continued into Saturday evening with a Black-Tie Ball at the Civic Centre. Vintage cars lined the red carpet, and guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated venue with fairy lights and festoon lighting inside and out. Tables were elegantly dressed with chandelier-themed lamps and black-and-white feather decorations. The evening's entertainment featured music and dancing from the 1920s to the 1960s, then moving into the 70s and 80s as the night progressed. A cocktail bar provided a relaxing space for people to chat and enjoy the evening, while outdoor bars and lounge areas, lit up by festoon lights, added a festive ambience. A lively art auction, raffle, and prize giveaways rounded out the night, making it an event to remember.
Sunday brought even more joy as The Queensland Heritage Park hosted the Family Fun Day. The day started with a traditional Poets’ Breakfast and a colourful parade featuring classic cars, machinery, floats, horses and walking groups. The Banana Shire Historical Society took first place for its outstanding float, with the Callide Dawson Machinery Preservation Club and Meissner Pastoral Co securing second and third places, respectively. Adding to the excitement, the crew from Farmer Wants a Wife made a special appearance, with local farmer Corey and the show's contestants. The town is set to be featured in the upcoming series, airing next year on Channel 7.
Throughout the day, kids enjoyed free amusement rides, while families and friends made the most of the festivities by catching up, creating new memories, and celebrating the town’s 100-year legacy. Official proceedings culminated with the cutting of the centenary cake, donated by Debbie Reid from DReamcakes & Supplies. The spectacular cake featuring a striking cockatoo on top, was shared amongst attendees, marking a sweet end to the weekend’s celebrations. Mayor Nev Ferrier made a moving speech, thanking the organising committee for their hard work in bringing the community together for such a momentous occasion.
To view events being held in the Banana Shire visit the Banana Shire Community Events Calendar
