Much has been written these days about the use/abuse of social media and the propensity for some to use it to air complaints, grievances, moans and whinges. But even in the early 20th Century, people still vented their displeasure through the available media.
Daylesford Advocate Tuesday 9 January 1917:
NEW YEAR’S EVE IN DAYLESFORD.
To the Editor of the Advocate,
Sir,
The proceedings which took place in the main street of Daylesford on New Year’s Eve were certainly not a credit to any community.
The way in which the law was openly violated by fruit, confectionery and other shops being allowed to carry on business during the whole of the Sabbath, and especially during the evening, needs some explanation, unless Daylesford is a law unto itself.
The confusion, the shouting, the buffoonery and the hideous noises by which the closing moments of the old year, and the early hours of the new year were desecrated and marred, were a disgrace and a humiliation to any people.
As a nation we were requested by our King to observe the last Sabbath in 1916 as a day of national thanksgiving and intercession, but neither the day nor the conditions at present prevailing had any restraining influence. Many of our own townsfolk, with broken hearts, are grieving for loved ones who have fallen, and dear ones exposed to horrors which baffle description; this season of usual festivity has been one of sadness to them, and yet the crowds who thronged the streets were so heartless and utterly indifferent to the feelings of others, and the needs of our nation, as to make this most solemn season a time of vulgar and foolish hilarity.
Surely, sir, no self-respecting community will allow the most momentous and perhaps the darkest year that has ever dawned upon our world to be ushered in amidst such empty, degrading frivolity without a protest. We read that in London, even the customary ringing of the bells of St. Paul’s and the gathering of the people on Ludgate Hill, did not take place, but in Daylesford no noise was too hideous or frivolity too great to satisfy the exuberant spirits of those for whom our Australian heroes are sacrificing, suffering and dying.
I think, Sir, we have a right to know by what authority such proceedings were permitted!
Yours, etc,
LOYALIST.
Content from https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper
An Event Rich in History
In spite of the aforementioned complaints, it seems the spirit of celebration on New Years Eve still lives on in Daylesford!
It’s fascinating to delve into the history of the New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Vincent St precinct! The Daylesford & District Historical society https://daylesfordmuseum.net/ have found that it started NYE of 1927!
The inaugural event, titled the “Grand Gala and Battle of Flowers,” marked the genesis of what would eventually evolve into the iconic parade we know today. The concept of a chosen “Queen” leading the procession, accompanied by various individuals and groups adorned in costume or character, paints a vivid picture of the festive atmosphere of the time.
The tradition of throwing flowers, whether real or paper, added a whimsical touch to the proceedings, while onlookers joined in the merriment by tossing confetti and other festive items. The enthusiasm extended beyond the streets, with shops adorning their windows and verandahs, further enhancing the vibrant ambiance of the occasion.
While research undertaken by the Daylesford & District Historical Society traced the organised parade tradition back to the 1926–27 ‘Grand Gala and Battle of Flowers’, more recently discovered newspaper articles suggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Daylesford were already well established by at least 1917, and possibly even earlier.”
The extensive advertising efforts across district newspapers, spanning a radius of 50 miles, underscored the significance of the event in the community. Moreover, the encouragement from publications like the “Herald-Sun” to promote similar Gala events in towns across Victoria speaks to the event’s regional influence and appeal.
Reflecting on these historical roots adds a rich layer of appreciation for the New Year’s Eve celebrations that continue to unite communities and ignite joyous festivities to this day.
Story content and image from https://daylesfordnye.com.au/
