Switching on the Lights for Tin
Can Bay, 1959
In 1959, residents,
Councillors and representatives of Queensland 's electricity
supply industry gathered together to welcome the coming of
a reticulated supply of electricity to the small coastal area
of Tin Can Bay. The Switching-On Ceremony was typical of many
throughout Queensland . These events celebrate the symbolic
dawn of a new era of technological advance and are a significant
part of Queensland 's cultural heritage.
At these ceremonies,
the oldest member of the community was given the honour of
carrying the kerosene lantern for the last time. When the
electric lights were switched on using the symbolic ‘switch',
the lantern was usually buried to signify the end of the old
ways. Sometimes the lantern would be smashed instead of buried.
The celebrations were meant to encourage everyone to embrace
the new technology and look forward to the future.
The following eleven
photographs of the Tin Can Bay Switch-On Ceremony in 1959
show the people gathering in preparation for the event, the
speeches being given to herald the arrival of the light, the
oldest resident carrying the kerosene lantern, the actual
‘switching-on' and the bright lights illuminating the seated
audience.
In the near future,
our Director will be conducting more research into the ceremony
and the impact that a reticulated supply of electricity had
on the development of the town and the surrounding area. If
there is anyone who remembers this event and would like to
contribute some memories, please contact the Director.
View our virtual exhibition here.
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