Heidelberg Historical Society

DRUNKEN ORGIE IN THE HEIDELBERG PARK

THREE BARRELS OF BEER ON TAP

MEN AND WOMEN INEBRIATED

(What do you think of this behaviour? Does the reporter reveal his (I think it was a he) views on social class, the roles of men and women? Would you see such an article in the press in the 2000's? Have views on alcohol consumption changed?)

"A disgraceful scene occurred at the Heidelberg Park on Saturday last, when the cricket ground was utilised by the stevedores and wharf laborers from Port Melbourne, Williamstown, and elsewhere, for their annual picnic and sports. It appears the picnickers had obtained a donation of three barrels of beer, and determined to convert the gift into money and enjoyment.

A friendly Port Melbourne publican was induced to take out a temporary license, which was granted by Mr Keogh, P.M., at the Heidelberg court. The committee, acting in conjunction with the publican, erected a booth inside the cricket ground enclosure, and supplemented the beer supply with whisky, brandy, and other liquors.

These were dispensed ad. lib to the picnickers irrespective of sex, or even the age of the purchasers, with the result that as soon as sufficient "sheoak" was imbibed many disgusting scenes were witnessed. Numerous men, and not a few women, were staggeringly drunk, and the rest is better imagined than described.

Now what we wish to know is, who are the persons who are responsible for conversion of the cricket ground into an alcoholic canteen, and the park into a resort for inebriated men and women? Somebody grants permission for outsiders to use the park, and is not such permit endorsed with proper conditions. If it is not it should be, and we hope that in future it will be a stipulation that holiday-makers using the recreation ground shall not dispense intoxicating liquor on the ground.

There are two well-conducted hotels in Heidelberg, and those who require refreshment may obtain it thereat, under proper restrictions and supervision. We trust no more barrels of beer will be allowed to flow into the mouths and steal away the brains and self-respect of otherwise reputable women in the Heidelberg Park."

(The article was divided into paragraphs for easier reading.)

(This article is included to illustrate attitudes of the time, as reported in the press. For example, much stress was laid on women being drunk in public.)

(We have never before heard the term "sheoak" used to describe drink, although it has been said that the cones of the sheoak induce saliva if chewed. Something new.)

(It does not appear that such events have occurred in Heidelberg Park in recent times. Does this tell us anything about young people today, assuming that those involved in 1901 were mainly young?)