Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), Tuesday 27 February 1923, page 11


"BACK TO HAMILTON."

Enthusiastic Celebrations.

HAMILTON, Monday.?Homillon is in gala mood, and extensive preparations have been made for the entertainment of former residents who are revisiting the town. In-coming trains during the past week have carried many visitors, but the largest number arrived on Saturday night by special, train from Melbourne. Several hundred people travelled on the train. The railway station was gaily decorated, and was crowded with residents. There was a scene of wonderful enthusiasm when the train entered the station. Bands played and the crowd sang "Home, Sweet Home." The visitors were welcomed by the mayor (Councillor J. G. Stewart) and the president of the Dundas Shire Council. Two former mayors, Mr. Henry, of" Oakleigh, and Mr. W. Moore, of Ballarat, responded. Reunions were held at the churches, lodges, and picture theatres in the evening. The streets were decorated with hundreds of coloured electric lights. On Sunday nearly all the pulpits were occupied by former ministers. Dean Tucker officiated at Christ Church, the Rev. J. Andrew Barber, the only surviving former minister of the Presbyterian Church, preached at St. Andrew's, and the Rev. Mr. Flockart and the Rev. A. Madsen presided at the Methodist services, , In the afternoon a band recital was held in the Botanical Gardens, and speeches were delivered by Councillor Stewart, Mr. White, M.L.C., Mr. Slater, M.L.A., Mr. McNeill, M.H.K., Mr. Moore, a former councillor, and the mayor of Portland (Mr. L. Wyatt). Community singing was held in the Botanical Gardens in the evening. ..,'