There wouldn't be too many families that invite central Queensland over for a fishing competition to celebrate 100 years on the one property but that's what the Dillons did on Saturday.
Around 200 people threw a line in the upper Belyando on Surbiton Station north of Alpha for the rejuvenated George's Hole fishing classic, and helped the Dillon family cut a few cakes to mark their centenary.
Begun in 2007 as a National Party fundraiser, the biennial competition then raised money for various charities such as Home and Community Care services and the Royal Flying Doctor Service before drought and a lack of water called a halt for four years.
The Belyando got a run in it earlier this year though and a fresh after October's rain so it was all back on, this time for local P&C committees.
While a big shade shed named Jack's Dream after Jack Dillon was erected some years ago, an ablution block was finished hours before the first arrivals, a comfortable touch for those who settled in for a weekend of sociability on the river bank.
Midway through the day they all raised a glass and shared in a cake cutting as three of the five generations that have lived on Surbiton Station celebrated with their many friends.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
