By Jessica Anstice
More than 1000 people attended the celebrations to mark the 150th anniversary since the Shire of Berwick was formed.
There were a variety of community groups and organisations who supported the event, from providing photographs and memorabilia to be exhibited to having stalls and running activities on the day.
These included Berwick Rotary, Berwick Calisthenics, Berwick Toy Library, Berwick Pakenham Historic Society and Berwick Obedience Dog Club.
St Margaret’s Grammar School provided their own memorabilia including the former brown school uniform, facilitated period games for the community to enjoy and put on a musical performance.
St Margaret’s Grammar School has been iconic in the heart of Berwick for over 90 years.
“I thought it was a fantastic event. St Margaret’s School Berwick is one of the oldest schools in the area and I felt a great appreciation of the role of the school in the community and the incredibly rich community that is Berwick,” principal Annette Rome said.
“The school is highly regarded by the people who live in Berwick and at the event there were a lovely number of moments where people would come to us and share their memories of St Margaret’s and Berwick.
“A number of students who wore the original brown uniform caused a lot of comments and reminisces.”
Ms Rome said there was a strong sense of community which came from the event and considering the weather was a little bit miserable, the warmth from the community shone through.
Phoenix Harmony Chorus also performed on the day.
“It was a great day reflecting on the Shire of Berwick’s rich history and heritage, acknowledging how far it has come and celebrating the great community it is today,” City of Casey Mayor Cr Geoff Ablett said.
“Despite the wet and cold conditions, it was great that many people still turned out to join in the celebrations.
“It was wonderful to hear stories from families that have had a long history in the area and see children playing traditional games such as hopscotch and french skipping.
“Thanks to all the Berwick groups and organisations that were involved in the event and helped make it such a great day.”
