The horses arrive "from Dunedin". Photos by Jane Dawber.
Hundreds flocked to Lawrence over the weekend to enjoy
four days of festivities as part of the Layers of Gold 150th
anniversary commemorating the discovery of gold in Gabriel's
Gully.
The anniversary's official opening was marked by the arrival
of dozens who made the four-day journey from Dunedin to
Lawrence on foot, followed by riders on horseback who made
the trek via the trail Gabriel Read took from Dunedin.
Read descendants Chris Read (17), his father Andrew Read
(51), both of Sale in Victoria and Andrew's father Jim Read
(72), of Tasmania, try their hands at gold-panning
The Mayor of Clutha District, Bryan Cadogan, opened the
celebrations, thanking the community members who worked hard to
organise the event.
The reserve was decked out with tents, harbouring various
stalls, exhibits and the occasional heritage-dressed
participant.
About 50 took part in a gold-panning competition where
contestants were judged on the amount of gold they retrieved
and their overall time.
Three of Gabriel Read's descendants also attended the
celebrations.
Jim Read (72), the grandson of Gabriel Read, with his son
Andrew (51) and grandson Chris (17) had flown from Australia.
Jenny and Imogen (4) Barlow of Lawrence watch the opening
This was Jim Read's third visit to Lawrence, his son
Andrew's second, and his grandson Chris' first trip.
Jim Read said they had only decided last month to attend the
celebrations last month after a friend Andrew made during his
first visit to Lawrence invited them.
"We had no idea how important the discovery of gold was to
Lawrence and Otago."
Andrew Read said other than stories, the family did not have
many items left by Gabriel Read.
"I think he was very generous and gave most things away. He
was more interested in discovery ... than riches."
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