Community
31 October, 2024
Celebrating 100 years
AN iconic area which has played host to weddings, birthdays and family gatherings at Mortlake’s Tea Tree Lake will celebrate a century this weekend.
The Montgomery Pavilion will officially be celebrated as having turned 100 this weekend, with a wide range of activities planned on Sunday, November 3 from 11am-4pm at Tea Tree Lake.
Mortlake and District Historical Society secretary Jill Clingan said she was expecting a big day as Tea Tree Lake and Montgomery Pavilion has been a scenic backdrop in the lives of Mortlakians for generations.
“Before they built the skatepark the area used to be for the tennis courts, which is how I remember coming to the area,” she said.
“My mum would play tennis and the kids would come down to the Montgomery Pavilion to play before they would all come down to have afternoon tea in the pavilion.
“The Country Women’s Association has had events at the pavilion, the Mortlake Garden Club has held events, some have had their weddings or wedding photos taken, and the shire has hosted Australia Day ceremonies at the pavilion.
“It’s actually been part of community events for a long time, so I think that’s why people are so attached to Montgomery Pavilion and are glad to see it spruced up.
“It’s such a nice setting.”
The celebration festivities this Sunday will include an information session held at Montgomery Pavilion where visitors can learn more about Thomas Montgomery and his contribution to Mortlake, enjoy a sausage sizzle and meet with members of the Mortlake Garden Club.
The Mortlake Bowls Club will host an art exhibtion from artistic stalwart Armour Beardsley and her students, in addition to a historical photograph display from the Mortlake and District Historical Society showcasing the events which have been held at the beloved pavilion.
The Mortlake Men’s Shed will also be open for those wanting to take a stroll and get a closer look at the range of projects members have busily been working on.
The Mortlake Lions Club will be providing a barbecue lunch, Coffee with the Girls will be selling and the ladies of the Country Women’s Association will have plenty of tasty nibbles available.
“Being part of the historical society, I think it’s so important to record how important these places are to people’s lives,” Ms Clingan said.
“I think it’s nice to take those moments where you can try and capture that history and information.
“So many people drive through Mortlake and don’t always know the lake is here because it’s tucked away, but the locals have used this area for a long time, especially walking through to go to high school.
“Caravan park guests often comment on what a gem the lake is, or visitors when we have the vintage cars roll through.
“It’s a lovely place to be, and we welcome all to come along and celebrate it with us.”