Opening Day, Hotel Premier, Cooran, 1911

Harry Price Mason was the hotel proprietor at the time of opening. In a newspaper report from the time, the hotel was described as situated on the corner of Queen and Ann Streets in the 'new township of Cooran'. Further reading: 'Cooran' (1911, Feb 11), Gympie Times & Mary River Mining Gazette. Harry's son, Archie, who was one of the "Boys of Cooran" (along with his brothers Rodger and Harry), was a Bullocky before he enlisted. Harry's brother, William Mason, had a farm named "The Falls" in the area. (Source: provided by donor) Harry is pictured standing next to the cart's rear wheel, with thumbs in his lapels. The three small girls to his right are Elsie Mason, Ruby Mason and Ruth Mason. Harry's brother, William Mason, and several of Harry's sons are also pictured. See also 'Harry Price Mason - Life story'