The Goroke community came together on Sunday at the Goroke Hall to open a 25-year sealed perpetual time capsule, revealing a treasure trove of memories from the past. The event coincided with the launch of the town’s historical self-tour and also featured an open tour of Goroke P-12 College and the newly established Goroke Community Complex.

West Wimmera Shire Council Mayor Tim Meyer attended the event and reflected on the occasion:

“It was fantastic to see people opening an array of items, including letters, magazines, supermarket price lists, photos, memorabilia, and so much amazing history and memories from 25 years ago.”

“It was great to see so many people in attendance. It truly shows that connection that people who grow up in small towns have, that they will continue to keep coming back to the place they call home. I was fortunate to receive a letter in the time capsule from the Mayor of the time, Warren Wait, which was quite funny to read, where he spoke about how challenging it was for the council to get road funding and how the region was quite dry with lakes almost empty. It shows how little things can change sometimes! I look forward to leaving a letter for a future Mayor to read in 25 years time, hopefully things will have changed next time!”

The honour of opening the time capsule was given to Goroke’s oldest resident, Max Carter, who, at 94, was surprised to witness the moment. Max and his wife had chosen not to submit items to the capsule when it was first sealed, assuming they wouldn’t be around for its reopening.

Following the ceremony, the time capsule will be resealed on April 6, with new contributions set to be stored until 2050. Community members wishing to submit items for the next capsule can leave them at the Goroke Library or Goroke IGA.

This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 12 March 2025.