Centennial celebration for popular poet

ONE of Australia’s most venerated poets and bush writers will be the subject of an upcoming celebration at Eureka Hall.

Hosted by the Henry Lawson Memorial and Literary Society and titled The Big Commemorative Gig, the event will celebrate the writer and poet on the 100th anniversary of his death.

Joining in the celebrations is Queen Victoria performer Rachel Buckley, who will take on the role of the long-reigning monarch whom Lawson criticised in an article in newspaper The Truth.

She said although Queen Victoria herself wouldn’t have been amused, the day will showcase all things Lawson.

“There’ll be music and poetry. We have the fabulous Campaspe Players playing their instruments, singing and telling stories of Lawson,” she said.

“There’ll be special commemorative coins, a book launch. I think it’s a marvellous thing they’re doing holding this event and keeping our poets alive.”

The event will also provide the launch for Beyond Lawson, an anthology of collected works by poets influenced by Lawson, some of whom will read selected poems.

Eureka Hall on Stawell Street South was chosen as the location in reference to Lawson’s visiting the Eureka Stockade.

Buckley said the site “had a special place in his heart” and is an apt choice to hold the event.

“It resonated for him so it’s a nice thing to say 100 years later we’re here as well,” he said.

“The society could have held this in Melbourne so it’s wonderful that it’s happening here.

“A lot of people will come from all around and stay in the area so there’s that added bonus of bringing their business with them.”

The Big Commemorative Gig is set for Saturday, 3 September, tickets are $20 while children are free.

To book, visit bit.ly/3Ax6IpD.