ANTICIPATION is growing in Ararat ahead of the 150th anniversary celebration of the Aradale Mental Hospital in October.
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Organisers have said many former staff members of Aradale have already indicated they intend to return to celebrate the important milestone and catch up with former work colleagues.
Commencing at 2pm on October 21, the public and former staff are invited to return to the iconic Aradale building for the celebration.
The programme will include an official welcome by Ararat Rural City Mayor Paul Hooper and the unveiling of a plaque.
This presentation is free and the public are invited to come.
Cr Hooper said organisers have been busy putting the finishing touches of the celebrations in place.
“Friends of J Ward members have worked hard on this celebration and everyone is welcome to attend to commemorate a significant part of Ararat’s history,” he said.
“Former staff members of Aradale and J Ward are especially encouraged to head along and any memorabilia which could be placed on display would be very welcome.”
There will be tours of buildings that are able to be opened to the public.
The formal dinner on Saturday night will be held at J Ward, with tickets $60 each including pre-dinner canapés, drinks, and a two course meal.
As a further attraction, a light and sound show will be projected on to the walls at J Ward, commencing at 9pm.
For details and booking visit ‘J Ward Gaol and Ararat Asylum’ Facebook page or www.jward.org.au.