THE Mount Gambier History Group and Mount Gambier City Council have called on the community to share stories of their family history to celebrate the centenary of Rook Walk – the city’s largest-ever working bee.
The construction of Rook Walk saw Mount Gambier come to a standstill on November 27, 1918, as more than 2000 people assembled at the Blue Lake to take part in the greatest one-day community effort in the city’s history.
Rook Walk was built as part of a beautification of the lakes scheme and organised by hotelier Arthur Rook and the progress association.
The volunteers included tradesmen, labourers, bankers, shop assistants and 300 ladies who provided three meals during the day and live music by the Salvation Army and town band.
“One of the stories that has always held my interest was of Rook Walk and how it drew our community together in such a powerful way at the end of the First World War,” Mount Gambier History Group member Lynn Lowe said.
“It was a time of sorrow and conflict, but out of that grew hope and unity.”
A commemorative event will be held on November 27 to celebrate the historic community effort.
“As part of the celebrations, we are hoping to find stories, photographs and memorabilia from the construction of the Rook Walk, which was a very special time in the history of our city,” Ms Lowe said.
“We are hoping people from around the region will share their stories or photographs from their ancestors who were involved.”
A community working bee participant list, originally published in The Border Watch in 1918, is available to view on the City Council’s website.
“Check the participant list to see if your family took part on the day,” Ms Lowe said.
Contact community events team leader Denise Richardson on 8723 1025 if you are interested in sharing stories or if you want to provide photographs or family history for the event.
