By Bridget Cook
IT WAS a big night for Cranbourne last week as more than 50 local community members came together to celebrate the town’s past, present and future.
On Wednesday 19 October, the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce (CCC) hosted its joint annual general meeting and another milestone occasion – 150 years since Cranbourne was gazetted as a town.
The night looked back at Cranbourne’s history as well as celebrated the future ahead for the town, with the newly elected CCC committee.
Actor and comedian Marty Fields was the MC for the night and kept the room filled with laughs.
Another highlight of the night was the viewing of a DVD – The Town Where I Live – put together by Cranbourne resident Bette Clydesdale who has lived there since 1957.
As well as reflecting on the town’s past, showing historical pictures of High Street, the DVD also reflected what a great place the suburb is today, highlighting its biggest attractions including Royal Botanical Gardens, Casey RACE, Casey Fields and The Shed.
Rosy Palamaro, from Lynbrook, was named as the winner of the CCC’s and Star News Group’s poster competition to celebrate the 150th birthday.
The design will now be displayed around Centro Shopping Centre, Cranbourne.
City of Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon was the guest speaker on the night, on behalf of the Mayor Shar Balmes.
“Cranbourne is a great place to live, work and run a business,” she said.
“We’re here tonight to celebrate the past 150 years and the change that has occurred in this community over that century and a half.
“But as we do it’s important that we look to the bright future and the great things that are part of Cranbourne’s future – and it’s that future I’d like to talk to you about.”
Cr Stapledon spoke to the crowd about the adoption and implementation of the recent Cranbourne Town Centre Plan, which sets the agenda for land use and development in the Cranbourne Town Centre for the next 20 to 30 years.
“I would like to say thank you to each and every one of you for helping make Cranbourne the great place it is today and to encourage you to get on board and help us work toward an even brighter future,” she said.
Following the birthday celebration, the CCC elected its new committee for the next year, with president Neil Bainbridge stepping down.
He said: “2011, like 1861, lays a foundation for the future of Cranbourne.
“The CCC has been delighted in the past 12 months to work with City of Casey and have our say on the Cranbourne Town Centre Plan.
“Tonight we are not only looking at yesterday and today, but also looking at the future of Cranbourne and it’s definitely exciting to be involved with.”
Nick Morgione was elected the new CCC president, Chris Russell vice-president, Silvio Marinelli treasurer and Ron Pittard, Wayne Smith, Mr Bainbridge and Lee-Anne West the general committee.
