A TIME capsule filled with artefacts for future generations and plinths recognising prominent members of the Barmera community is among several projects planned for the town’s upcoming centenary.
Berri Barmera Council elected members approved both centenary projects at recent council meetings, giving Barmera Centenary Committee members the green light to continue with planning.
Time capsule project leader Helen Barney said the committee took inspiration from a capsule raising in another Riverland town last year.
“We discussed a range of different projects that we could approach in the community and, because we had a successful celebration last year raising the Overland Corner time capsule, we decided that a time capsule would be a great way to preserve history for the future residents of Barmera and surrounding areas,” she said.
“We have had to think about the position, which hasn’t been decided just yet.
“We’ve got some ideas and we’re working with the council to decide on a place to put it, and hopefully – if COVID permits – we’ll be putting the capsule into the ground on April 4, 2021.
“There will be a market and street party on the day too.
“We’ll be calling on members of the community plus clubs and organisations to contribute historical documents and artefacts into the capsule.
“There is another project happening through the committee to place plinths near the existing time capsule that was buried on Barwell Avenue to mark Barmera’s 75th anniversary.
“They will be dedicated to notable Barmera people from the last 100 years.”
Ms Barney said the committee is hoping the capsule will be donated by a local Riverland business.
“It’s going to be made out of stainless steel and the Berri Barmera Council is very supportive,” she said.
“(It) has approved the project and will be assisting with organisation of placing it into the ground.
“It should be exciting – it will be in the main street of Barmera and I think it’s a wonderful concept to be part of the 100th anniversary celebration.”
The committee has also applied to the Berri Barmera Council for in-kind support to assist with the capsule’s installation.