Mayor Shane Van Styn, and former Mayor Mr Phil Cooper, reveal the items of a time capsule buried in 1994.

Locals have the opportunity to be transported back to Geraldton in the mid-90s by viewing items from a recently opened time capsule.

In a true blast from the past, a time capsule buried in 1994 has been opened and revealed some treasured memorabilia from the time.

The capsule was deposited beneath the then Clock Tower in Marine Terrace on 15 November 1994 at the official opening of ‘Marine Terrace Central’.

During the Rocks Laneway development, the capsule was moved to a different location close to where the Clock Tower stood, and it was dug up last week.

Yesterday it was officially opened by City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn and City of Geraldton Mayor of the day in 1994, Mr Phil Cooper.

Mayor Van Styn said it was an honour to be alongside former Mayor Phil Cooper, who is also a Freeman of the City, to reveal the items.

“It was like being transported back to Geraldton in the mid-90s seeing all the wonderful items revealed,” he said.

“To some, 1994 might not seem like that long ago but this has been buried for 26 years and Geraldton has changed a great deal.

“These items will hold a sentimental place in the hearts of many locals and I hope our community enjoys reminiscing as much as I have.”

The time capsule was buried by Mr Cooper and the Governor of WA at the time – Major General Michael Jeffrey OAMC.

Mr Cooper said he remembers the occasion clear as day.

“There was a lot of excitement and very big crowds at the event,” he said.

“It was great to see the mall come to fruition so there was a lot of interest from the community and also other shires.

“But more than 20 years later, it is finally finished.

“A lot of things in this capsule still hold true today.”

Items in the time capsule include Mr Cooper’s speech from the event and a letter to Geraldton citizens, Council minutes, building plans for Marine Terrace Central, a Geraldton Guardian, a selection of various photos including the Marina and Chapman Road Upgrades, among other items.

The time capsule was officially opened on Tuesday 15 December, prior to Council Meeting.

The items will be on display to the public at the Geraldton Regional Library from Monday 21 December.