Susanna Freymark
Former state MP Thomas George has been a part of Beef Week since the very beginning and on Saturday, May 18, he had the job of announcing three new Life Members, one of which was his son.
Stuart George, Cherie Holdsworth and Grant Shedden were presented with Life Memberships to Beef Week for their efforts in keeping Casino’s favourite festival going.
Beef Week started in 2008, Thomas said and he mentioned “his mate” Col Sullivan, a former mayor.
Brenda Armfield is a Life Member and she sat next to the stage to congratulate the new members.
Stuart was teary receiving his Life Membership from his father. Stuart was president of Beef Week Committee for many years.
He was visibly moved by the presentation and hugged Brenda.
Grant said it was “heartwarming in 1982 going to Breakfast with the Butchers and cooking snags.”
“Beef Week is about the community. And making Casino a better place,” he said.
Thomas said Breakfast with the Butchers is unique to Casino.
Grant who currently is vice president of the Beef Week Committee said Beef Week brings money to town and showcases the best meat in Australia.
Thomas told the audience about Hazel Guest who designed the first Beef Week Logo.
“She won $50 and a meat tray,” he said.
“And she’s still alive.”
“Rockhampton can say what it likes,” Thomas said referencing Rockhampton’s claim to be the the Beef Capital.
“There’s no better place in Australia than Casino.”
Check out the Beef Week program here.
Below are some photos from the Beef Week opening night on Saturday, May 18.