ABOUT GELTWOOD
What, who or where is a “Geltwood”? In some languages the term “gelt” or “gilt” means money or gold. The story of Geltwood is certainly one that is treasured by the Limestone Coast community.
The Geltwood was a three masted iron hull vessel. Built in Harrington which is in Cumbria what was known as Cumberland. The Geltwood was shipwrecked not far from Rivoli Bay in June 1876 on its maiden voyage from Liverpool to Melbourne. Sadly, of the 31 passengers and crew, there were no survivors.
One of the ship’s anchors stands on Cape Buffon Drive at Southend. Another anchor and memorabilia can be viewed at the Millicent National Trust Living History Museum and further artefacts are on display at the Beachport National Trust Museum.
Some 138 years later the Geltwood story continues to capture the imagination of people across the region. Today however, the name “Geltwood” represents a different kind of “ship”.
The term is now synonymous with craftsmanship and kinship – two important threads in the fabric of life on the Limestone Coast.
In honour of the Geltwood Ship, the festival by the same name is a celebration of craftsmanship, community and creativity.
The Festival is coordinated by a group of volunteers with the assistance of the Wattle Range Council and Millicent Business Association.
For more information on Millicent's attractions and history please visit the Millicent Information Centre and National Trust Living History Museum, 1 Mount Gambier Road, Millicent. Phone: 08 8733 0904
To contact the Geltwood Festival Committee please get in touch via our facebook page (by clicking the 'f' symbol on the left) or email: events@wattlerange.sa.gov.au