Centenary celebrations will hit the Great Southern town of Pingrup this month

Quiet streets will spring to life on October 14 and 15 when an estimated 600 people rally in the Great Southern town to mark 100 years of its existence. The town was officially gazetted in 1924 after the railway extension from Katanning was completed in October 1923. Since then it has served as a receival site for grain growers and primary producers in the region. Pingrup CRC is co-ordinating the celebrations in conjunction with the Great Southern Treasures Bloom Festival and events manager Donna Skerris said the town was excited to celebrate its rich history. “It’s got the whole community rallied around but we’ve spent so much time beautifying our town again,” Ms Skerris said. “It gives us a sense of pride of showcasing what we’ve what we still got here and hopefully all the ex-residents coming back see that sense of pride as well.” The main events of the celebration will take place on Saturday, October 14, with something that appeals to everyone. “We will have a machinery and sporting memorabilia display and we’ve also got a presentation by our local historian, Keith Devenish, who has compiled family stories to hear during a presentation in the afternoon,” Ms Skerris said. “Local members have provided a helicopter for people to go on joyrides around the area as well. “In the evening, we’ve got a live band and food vans before fireworks will be shot into the sky at 8pm.” Ms Skerris urges all past and present locals from Pingrup to submit any memorabilia to be showcased throughout the event. On Sunday the CRC will provide breakfast for everyone before a bush poetry session and church service. Anyone who wishes to attend is encouraged to purchase a ticket for free at events.humanitix.com/pingrup-100 for catering purposes.