Preserving The Stories Of Mackay's Past

Left to Right: Trevor Peterson, Doug Peterson, Councillor Peter Sheedy and Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Local historian Doug Peterson recently welcomed Mackay Regional Councillors Ash-Lee Johnson and Peter Sheedy to his Bucasia home, sharing his collection of original plans and historical material connected to the former Mount Pelion State School and other important sites across the region.

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The former Mount Pelion State School building now holds pride of place at Sarina’s Field of Dreams Precinct in Railway Square, where it serves as a venue and administrative home for the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

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For Mr Peterson, preserving these stories is about ensuring future generations understand the foundations upon which their community was built.

“To know where you're going, you've got to know where you come from,” he said.

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“You have to recognise those that came before us, because they built what we've got now.”

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The historic school building recently formed part of a community celebration marking several significant milestones, including 100 years of the Mount Pelion school building, 30 years of the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre and 120 years of the former Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.

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Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson said community members such as Mr Peterson played an invaluable role in passing local history on to others.

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“I think it's just wonderful that we have engaged community members like Doug, that are really willing to teach people about the history,” Cr Johnson said.

“They have so much to give, and it’s just great to learn about the landmarks we have here in Mackay and surrounding regions.”

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Councillor Peter Sheedy said viewing original documents offered a tangible connection to the region’s past.

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“I think it really takes us back, with some original documents showing the origin of the building,” Cr Sheedy said.

“It originated up at Mount Pelion in 1926, so that's 100 years ago, and it’s wonderful to see some of the original documents still preserved.”

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Mr Peterson’s brother, Trevor, also reflected on the significance of preserving the former Mount Pelion State School, describing it as an important part of Mackay’s long-term history.

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He recalled the vision of establishing the building as an old-fashioned classroom, giving younger generations the opportunity to experience what education was once like – before modern classroom supplies like paper were even invented.  

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Mr Peterson believes as the region continues to change, preserving its history remains an important part of understanding where it has come from.

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