Drum roll please: Stanthorpe 150th Anniversary Celebration Advisory Committee announced

Preparations for Stanthorpe’s 150th anniversary celebrations are in excellent hands. Southern Downs Regional Council announced the committee members who will spearhead the arrangement for one of the region’s biggest celebrations at this week’s Special Meeting.

The Stanthorpe 150th Anniversary Celebration Advisory Committee will consist of the following key community figures who have demonstrated passion and drive for the Granite Belt region:

• Deb Wheeler – Amiens History Association Inc
• Jim Barnes – Stanthorpe community member with a local history interest
• Teena Wilcocks -Stanthorpe Agricultural Society
• Peter Watters -Stanthorpe community member with an agricultural interest
• Mary Findlay – Gallery Director, Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery
• Danielle Hannigan -Business Manager, Stanthorpe State Primary School
• Amanda Harrold – Secretary, Stanthorpe & Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce
• Russell Wantling – President, Apple & Grape Committee, Stanthorpe Festival Association Inc
• Samantha Wantling – Advertising Account Executive, Granite Belt Rep, Southern Free Times
• Raymond Mattiazzi – The International Club

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said he had worked on previous committees with each and every member and could attest to their dedication and commitment to the Granite Belt community.

“I think that if you look at the names on the list, you’ll find that they don’t raise their heads very often in public and say “look at me”, but they do work tirelessly behind the scenes. They are very qualified candidates,” Mayor Pennisi said.

Councillor Sheryl Windle said she was confident the new committee would deliver Stanthorpe’s anniversary milestone in a manner befitting of the town’s rich history and community spirit.

“It is great to see such a cross section of people come forward to take on this role,” Councillor Windle said.

“I think this group represents a wealth of experience and knowledge and they already do a power of work across the community, but combined their contribution will equal a 150 per cent for this event. Well done.”

Councillors Cameron Gow and Stephen Tancred will represent Council on the planning committee, with Mayor Vic Pennisi an ex-officio member.   

The advisory committee’s role is to provide Council with strategic guidance and/or recommendations in relation to projects, activities and events for the Stanthorpe 150th Anniversary Celebration program; how these might be funded and the extent of Council’s involvement, including staff resources.