One hundred years in anybodyís language is a long time, and achieving the magic number is often celebrated in style. So it is with City Printing Works, established in 1903 in Rockhampton, Queensland, which is planning a gala of festivities for its official celebrations in May.

According to Eric Anderson, whose family founded the company, the community has really rallied to show their love and support for the longstanding business.

ìIt is remarkable to be in business for 100 years still with the original family. For our centenary, a local historian, Dr Lorna McDonald, has written a book and the book launch will be held on May 8th at the Rockhampton Art Gallery. We will also be holding an Open Day for customers on Friday May 9th to show the customers through the works,î says Anderson.

ìAn exhibition of old printing handset type in cases and a working Chandler and Price old style platen 12 x 8 inch with treadle which has been reconditioned for the occasion is also planned, as is a display of old memorabilia and photos from April 11th to May 18th.î

City printing Works was originally founded by Andrew Canning Anderson as a sporting, political, social and community publication. The Critic, as the publication was called, survived for three decades before succumbing on May 2nd 1931 during the Great Depression. From there it continued as a general printing establishment.

Three of Andrewís sons, Bill, Jack and Dave, carried on the business after his passing in 1957. They then passed the business onto the third generation Bruce, John and Eric who passed it onto the fourth generation James and Warwick.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter