The unveiling of the Harry Springett Rotunda in 1996 marked a fitting tribute to a man whose influence helped shape both Springett’s Arcade and the wider Bowral community. The decade from 1986 to 1996 was a period of celebration, reflection and recognition, highlighting the lasting impact of the Springett family on the Southern Highlands.
Following the successful redevelopment and opening of Springett’s Arcade in 1984, the precinct quickly established itself as a vibrant centre for shopping, business and community life. By the mid-1990s, it had become firmly woven into the fabric of Bowral.
Celebrating Ten Years of Springett’s Arcade
One of the defining moments of the decade occurred on Friday, 25 November 1994, when the four Springett brothers hosted a special celebration to mark the 10th anniversary of Springett’s Arcade.
Held within the arcade itself, in front of the Hot Canary Butchery, the occasion reflected the community spirit that had long been associated with the Springett name. Shoppers gathered to join in the festivities, which began with a rendition of Happy Birthday performed by Ted Springett on the arcade’s piano.
The celebrations continued with the ceremonial cutting of a spectacular four-tier gateau cake, which was shared with shoppers alongside complimentary glasses of champagne. The anniversary event marked the beginning of ten days of festivities throughout the arcade, culminating in the opportunity for shoppers to win a $1,000 shopping voucher.
More than simply celebrating a building, the anniversary recognised a decade in which Springett’s Arcade had become a meeting place for locals, a home for businesses and a destination for visitors to Bowral.
The Legacy of Harry Springett
The decade concluded with a significant honour that reflected Harry Springett’s enduring contribution to the Southern Highlands. On Sunday, 22 December 1996, the Harry Springett Rotunda was officially unveiled in Corbett Gardens. The dedication recognised Harry’s decades of service to the community and his commitment to the growth and development of Bowral.
The opening ceremony brought together community members and visitors for a day of celebration. Musical performances were provided by the Southern Highlands Concert Band and the New South Wales Department of Corrective Services Band before an official dedication was conducted by the Mayor of Wingecarribee, Councillor Jim Tuddenham.
Situated within one of Bowral’s most iconic public spaces, the rotunda provided a permanent reminder of Harry Springett’s role in shaping the town’s social and commercial landscape.
A Lasting Impact on Bowral
The period between 1986 and 1996 demonstrated that the Springett family’s influence extended far beyond business success. The 10th anniversary celebrations highlighted the importance of Springett’s Arcade as a community gathering place, while the dedication of the Harry Springett Rotunda recognised the contribution of a man whose commitment to Bowral helped leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Today, both the arcade and the rotunda remain important landmarks within the Southern Highlands. They tell the story of a family whose vision, generosity and dedication helped shape the Bowral community for more than a century.
As Springett’s celebrates 100 years, the decade from 1986 to 1996 stands as a reminder that the strongest legacies are not measured solely by buildings or businesses, but by the lasting connections they create within a community.
