Freestone's place in history
THERE may not have been party hats and streamers, but the Freestone 150th event was a celebration to remember.
Neighbours, friends and families gathered at the hall to commemorate the significant day.
Treasurer of the Freestone 150 committee Jillian Doyle said she was thrilled with the turnout and was glad everyone could come together.
"It's to celebrate the 150 years of establishment so we've got the branding post, heavy horse display, bus tours, old-style kids games and memorabilia inside the hall," Mrs Doyle said.
For her, it was a special day on a personal level.
"I've been here all my life - this is home," she said.
"It's so nice to see people coming back to Freestone."
Member for Southern Downs Lawrence Springborg and Southern Downs Regional Councillor Ross Bartley unveiled the branding board and Mr Springborg said it was a precious day to remember the history of the township.
"It means a lot for people of this district because this was such a prominent part of history," Mr Springborg said.
He said it was the grassroots of the town that could often be forgotten in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
"Overall, much of Queensland's early history is in this part of the region and people forget that," Mr Springborg said.
"A place like Freestone encapsulates that.
"Australia is a relatively young nation but as far as modern settlement is concerned, Freestone is where it's at."
