Local History Awakens Through the Life and Times of Tailem Bend

Local history will awaken through this year’s History Festival exhibition at the Coorong Gallery titled ‘The Life & Times of Tailem Bend’.

The Tailem Bend Historians in partnership with Coorong District Council will be celebrating South Australia’s History Festival throughout the month of May with a photographic collection and display of historic memorabilia that reflects the life and times of Tailem Bend, from the early 1900s.

The exhibition will be held in Tailem Bend’s Coorong Gallery and will include history on the river, road and railway developments that contributed to the vibrant community it is today.

The South Australian History Festival provides an opportunity for communities to share their passion for history, for collecting and for showcasing our unique heritage.

This year the History Festival explores the theme of ‘Change’. The Life & Times of Tailem Bend exhibition captures change through the years – for better or for worse, in many different facets.

From 26 March 2021, locals and visitors to the exhibition will be treated to insights of the early years in Tailem Bend, the area prior to European settlement, the establishment of the railways and the foundation it set for the town’s future development. Visitors will also engage in memorabilia and historical displays that feature as part of this exhibition.

Coorong District Council’s Mayor Paul Simmons said, “It’s important for our country towns and regional farming communities to be able to access and celebrate the region’s history.”

“South Australia’s History Festival provides a great opportunity for our history groups to share their historical research, stories and collections with locals and visitors,” says Mayor Simmons.

“We are extremely lucky to have groups of dedicated volunteers who commit themselves to preserving our history and heritage, ensuring that it is not lost or forgotten.

“I commend the Tailem Bend Historians for their efforts in putting together an exhibition – 12 months in the making, and I look forward to the opening.”

Tailem Bend’s History Festival exhibition “’The Life & Times of Tailem Bend’ will be on display at the Coorong Gallery, 95-101 Railway Terrace Tailem Bend from Friday 26 March 2021 and will extend through to the end of May 2021.

The community is invited to attend the exhibition opening on Friday 26 March 2021 at the Coorong Gallery from 2:30pm – 4:30pm. Please contact Coorong District Council on 1300 785 277 for more information or to register for the exhibition opening.

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Contact:

Kellie Jaensch
SENIOR COMMUNITY & TOURISM OFFICER | COORONG DISTRICT COUNCIL
Phone: 1300 785 277 | E: kjaensch@coorong.sa.gov.au