Carnarvon community celebrates history of Gascoyne Trading Company with parade and memorabilia

A reunion event commemorating Gascoyne Trading Company’s rich legacy kicked off at the weekend, as locals gathered to watch a parade through the main street promoting the historical significance of Carnarvon. Past drivers, family and friends linked to the historic transport company, as well as the general community, attended a reunion parade through Robinson Street on Saturday morning to celebrate the Gascoyne Traders. The company was established in 1924 by aviation legend Charles Kingsford Smith and his friend Keith Anderson in Carnarvon, delivering mail between the Gascoyne and Meekatharra before becoming a significant banana transporter to Perth markets. In 1950 it was purchased by Wesfarmers and has grown to become one of the largest transport operators in WA. A dinner was held at Carnarvon Bowling Club from 6pm where guests traced the history back to the days of Charles Kingsford Smith right up until Toll Holdings acquired the company in 2001. Dudley Maslen was the event’s MC and he, Peter Tomlinson and John Morgan spoke about their experience and memories handed down from their parents during their time with the company. Event promoter Trisha Carson said the Gascoyne Traders held a special place in the hearts of locals as it was historically the primary employer for the town. “We firmly believe that this event presents an invaluable opportunity not only to celebrate the legacy of the Gascoyne Traders but also to promote the historical significance of Carnarvon and foster a stronger sense of community engagement and pride in our shared local past,” she said.