Gabriel's Gully Goldrush 150th

Media release: December 2009

Gold, in the payable form, was first struck by Gabriel Read near Lawrence on 25th May 1861.  Read, an Australian-born prospector, was initally told he was on a 'wild goose chase' but his discovery, in the gully that now bears his name, changed the course of history and laid a foundation for both Otago and New Zealand.  By July 1861, the Tuapeka area was very much immersed in the gold rush, with the district's population swelling to over 11,000 compared to the less than 6,000 in Dunedin at the time.

In 2011, attention will again turn to Lawrence as it celebrates 150 years since what was essentially the birth of our nation.  Realising the significance of such an occasion, the Lawrence Community will be hosting a four day celebration, Gabriel's Gully Goldrush 150th from Friday 18th to Monday 21st March 2011.

The four day celebration will feature a drama which re-enacts the Goldrush with treks and walks to take us back in time to the 1860s.  With music, historical tours and displays, visual art, drama and family games and fun, there's something for everyone, young or old.

Come and celebrate the past connecting with the present, and be part of this national celebration.

Diary the dates now - 18th - 21st March 2011.

Check out www.lawrence.co.nz for more information.

Contact details for this event:

150 Year Celebration Committee
P:   5 Peel Street, Lawrence 9532
T:   (03) 485 9909
E:   jeanette.paterson@cluthadc.govt.nz
W:  www.lawrence.co.nz

Katy Macpherson
Project Manager
M:   021 154 5511
E:   katy@kinetica.co.nz